Solvents
REACH
Methyl acetate
CAS Number
79-20-9
EC Number
201-185-2
FEMA Number
FEMA 2676
What is Methyl acetate?
Methyl acetate (CAS 79-20-9), also known by its FEMA 2676 designation, is a fast-evaporating ester solvent used in food flavoring and personal care manufacturing.
Where is Methyl acetate used?
- Food and beverage: FEMA-approved flavoring agent contributing fruity, apple-like top notes to confectionery, beverages, and baked goods
- Flavor compounding: carrier solvent that disperses and stabilizes aromatic ingredients without masking the target flavor profile
- Personal care: solvent in nail polish removers, aerosol formulations, and fragrance delivery systems
- Cosmetic sprays and hair care aerosols: low-residue solvent for finish quality
- Its rapid evaporation rate makes it a carrier where residual solvent presence must be minimized.
Good to know: Tereton is a recognized trade name in certain European markets. Food-grade material conforms to FEMA and FCC specifications; technical-grade is standard for industrial solvent use.
Commercial specifications
- Purity typically 99% and above for commercial supply
- Clear liquid in drums, IBCs, and bulk tanker quantities
Other Names (Synonyms)
Tereton|Octan metylu|Metile (acetato di)|Metile|Methylester kiseliny octove|Methyle (acetate de)|Methylacetat (german)|Methyl ethanoate
What are the physical properties of Methyl acetate?
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℃
How is Methyl acetate classified and handled safely? 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.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Methyl acetate?
HS Code 29153900
UN Number 1231
ADR Class 3
Packing Group II
Storage Class 3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany) 1