Methyl acetate

CAS Number
79-20-9
EC Number
201-185-2
Chemical Formula
C3H6O2
Molecular Weight
74.08 g/mol
FEMA Number
FEMA 2676

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.

Other Names (Synonyms)

Tereton|Octan metylu|Metile (acetato di)|Metile|Methylester kiseliny octove|Methyle (acetate de)|Methylacetat (german)|Methyl ethanoate

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

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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℃

Documentation

Safety & Handling Learn More

Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard

Hazard Statements

H225 Highly Flammable liquid and vapor
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H320 Causes eye irritation
H335 May cause respiratory irritation

Precautionary Statements

P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P233 Keep container tightly closed.
P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code 29153900
UN Number 1231
ADR Class 3
Packing Group II
Storage Class 3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany) 1
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