Methylal

Methylal (CAS 109-87-5) is a low-molecular-weight acetal solvent also known as Formal, Dimethyl Formal, and by the abbreviation (CH3O)2CH2. It carries no E-code designation and is classified under HS code 29110000. It is commercially available from European chemical distributors serving solvent, pharmaceutical, and food-grade markets.

In pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturing, Methylal functions as a polar aprotic carrier solvent that solubilizes active compounds and aids extraction processes. It also acts as a catalyst intermediate in certain chemical synthesis routes and serves as an antimicrobial preservative, where its acetal structure releases formaldehyde slowly under controlled conditions to inhibit microbial growth.

Methylal is supplied in technical and food-grade specifications, with quality standards aligned to FCC and REACH compliance requirements. European procurement teams should confirm grade suitability against Ph.Eur. monographs where pharmaceutical application is intended. Packaging is typically available in drums and IBC formats for bulk industrial supply.