Methyl acetate
Description
Methyl acetate (CAS 79-20-9), also known by its FEMA 2676 designation, is a fast-evaporating ester solvent used across food flavoring and personal care manufacturing. Tereton is a recognized trade name encountered in certain European markets.
Its rapid evaporation rate makes it a preferred carrier in formulations where residual solvent presence must be minimized. In food and beverage production, methyl acetate functions as a FEMA-approved flavoring agent.
It contributes fruity, apple-like top notes to confectionery, beverages, and baked goods. Personal care manufacturers use it as a solvent in nail polish removers, aerosol formulations, and fragrance delivery systems.
In these applications, clean evaporation is critical. In flavor compounding, it acts as a carrier solvent that helps disperse and stabilize aromatic ingredients without masking the target flavor profile.
It also appears in cosmetic sprays and hair care aerosols where a low-residue solvent is required for finish quality. Methyl acetate is supplied as a clear liquid in drums, IBCs, and bulk tanker quantities.
Food-grade material conforming to FEMA and FCC specifications is available for flavoring applications, while technical-grade is standard for industrial solvent use.
Purity levels typically range from 99% and above for commercial supply. This high level of purity ensures consistent performance across both food-grade and industrial manufacturing processes.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -98 °C |
| Boiling Point | 56.8 °C |
| Density | 0.9342 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Flash Point | 3.2 °F |
| Appearance | Methyl acetate is a colorless liquid with a fruity odor. |
| Color | Clear colorless to slightly pale yellow |
| Odor | Slightly acrid, sweet; fragrant. |
| Form | Solution |
| Water Solubility | 250 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 165 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.361(lit.) |
| pH | 7 |
| Log P | 0.18 at 20℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29153900 |
| UN Number | 1231 |
| ADR Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Storage Class | 3 - Flammable liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
Tereton|Octan metylu|Metile (acetato di)|Metile|Methylester kiseliny octove|Methyle (acetate de)|Methylacetat (german)|Methyl ethanoate
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