Ethyl Acetate

Product Overview

Ethyl acetate (CAS 141-78-6) is a widely utilized volatile organic compound classified as an ester, represented by the chemical formula C4H8O2 with a molecular weight of 88.11. This clear, colorless liquid is characterized by an ether-like odor reminiscent of pineapple. It is less dense than water, exhibiting a density of 0.902 at 68 °F, and its vapors are heavier than air. Because of its moderate boiling point of 171 °F at 760 mmHg and a flash point of 24 °F, it serves as a highly effective and rapid-drying solvent across various industrial sectors.

At Alliance Chemical, we supply this high-performance ester to support rigorous manufacturing, formulation, and laboratory workflows. You can explore our full selection of esters or order ethyl acetate directly. The solvent properties of ethyl acetate make it highly miscible with most organic solvents, while displaying a specific solubility of 50 to 100 mg/mL in water at 70 °F. Its vapor pressure of 73 mmHg at 68 °F ensures rapid evaporation, which is highly valued in coating processes. This product is designed strictly for industrial use and professional applications, ensuring consistent chemical parameters for your operations.

Why This Grade

When selecting a solvent for precise industrial applications, grade purity is a critical variable that directly impacts process efficiency and output quality. Although a specific grade or concentration is not specified for this particular SKU, our standard industrial-grade ethyl acetate is manufactured to minimize moisture and acid impurities. In typical chemical processing, even minor variances in water content or free acid levels can severely disrupt reaction kinetics or compromise the stability of formulated products. Maintaining strict control over these trace components ensures predictable performance across all manufacturing batches.

Utilizing an incorrect or off-specification grade of ethyl acetate can result in significant operational failures. In coating and adhesive applications, excessive water contamination causes phase separation, poor adhesion, and blushing during the curing process. In chemical synthesis, unwanted impurities can lead to secondary side reactions, reducing overall yield and contaminating the final product. By choosing a verified industrial-grade solvent, operators mitigate these risks, preventing costly production downtime, material waste, and equipment corrosion associated with low-tier alternatives.

Industrial Applications

This versatile solvent finds extensive use across several coating and industrial manufacturing sectors:

• Formulation of fast-drying industrial coatings, lacquers, and varnishes where rapid solvent evaporation is required for uniform film formation.
• Manufacture of high-strength industrial adhesives and sealants, serving as a carrier solvent that evaporates quickly to establish strong bonds.
• Use as an extraction solvent in organic synthesis and laboratory processes to isolate target organic compounds from aqueous mixtures.
• Formulation of specialized printing inks, particularly flexographic and rotogravure inks, where precise evaporation rates are critical for high-speed runs.
• Industrial surface preparation and cleaning agent, stripping resins, oils, and lacquers from metal equipment prior to coating or assembly.

Hazmat & Shipping

Ethyl acetate is a highly flammable liquid regulated under DOT shipping guidelines as UN1173. It is classified under Hazard Class 3 and assigned to Packing Group II. The proper shipping name is Ethyl acetate, and the designated signal word is Danger. Due to its flash point of 24 °F and highly volatile vapors, transport requires compliance with strict hazmat protocols. Our shipping procedures ensure that all containers — ranging from individual quarts to large bulk drums — meet DOT specifications and are properly labeled to mitigate transport risks.

Handlers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) based on the GHS hazard classifications. In accordance with hazard statements H225 (highly flammable liquid and vapor), H319 (causes serious eye irritation), and H336 (may cause drowsiness or dizziness), operators must utilize chemical splash goggles, impervious gloves, and local exhaust ventilation or respiratory protection. Repeated exposure may cause skin dryness or cracking (EUH066), making protective clothing essential. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) documentation, which is provided with every order, contains comprehensive handling and safety specifications that facilities must review before use.

Handling & Storage

Safe storage of ethyl acetate requires a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and open flames. The ideal storage temperature should be maintained below 85 °F to minimize vapor pressure buildup, which reaches 73 mmHg at 68 °F. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use. Ethyl acetate is compatible with stainless steel, carbon steel, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) containers, but it degrades many plastics and rubbers. Keep away from incompatible substances, including strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, and strong bases, to prevent hazardous exothermic reactions.

Order & Documentation

Alliance Chemical is dedicated to providing high-quality chemical distribution with comprehensive documentation support. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available upon request for every lot we distribute, ensuring full traceability and specification compliance. Additionally, a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is provided with every order to support your facility's safety protocols. To initiate your procurement, you may Request a Quote for bulk volumes or Download the SDS to review compliance requirements.

Why Buy from Alliance Chemical

Since 1997, Alliance Chemical has supplied premium industrial chemicals from Taylor, Texas under CAGE Code 1LT50, with a COA and SDS included on every order. For industrial use only.