Methyl formate
Encyclopedia : M : ME : MET : Methyl formate
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Methyl formate, also called methyl methanoate, is the methyl ester of formic acid. It is a clear liquid with an ethereal odor, high vapor pressure and low surface tension.
Production
In the laboratory, methyl formate can be produced by the condensation reaction of methanol and formic acid, as follows:
Industrial methyl formate, however, is usually produced by the combination of methanol and carbon monoxide in the presence of a strong base:
Uses
Methyl formate is used primarily to manufacture formamide, dimethylformamide, and formic acid. Because of its high vapor pressure, it dries very quickly and thus is used for quick-drying finishes. It is also used as an insecticide and to manufacture certain pharmaceuticals.
External links
- For a full list of external links to MSDSs, spectroscopic data, commercial chemicals suppliers etc. for this compound, see [Chemical sources].
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