Applications

• Solvent for drugs in the pharmaceutical industry
• Component in pharmaceutical formulations
• Flavouring agent and solvent for food additives in the food and beverage industry
• Solvent for paints, varnishes, and lacquers in the coatings industry
• Solvent for fragrances and essential oils in the perfumery industry

General

Ethyl acetate is a colourless, volatile liquid with a pleasant, fruity odour. It has the chemical formula C4H8O2 and is also known as ethyl ethanoate, acetic ether, or simply EA. Ethyl acetate is a common organic solvent that is widely used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, paints, coatings, adhesives, and flavours and fragrances. It is a highly flammable substance with a flash point of 4°C, and it can be easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flames.

Ethyl acetate is produced by the esterification reaction between ethanol and acetic acid, typically using a catalyst such as sulphuric acid. It is also naturally occurring in fruits, such as bananas, apples, and grapes, and is a major component of their aroma. Ethyl acetate is soluble in most organic solvents and slightly soluble in water. It has a boiling point of 77.1°C and a density of 0.902 g/cm³ at 20°C.

Ethyl acetate has various applications in different industries. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as a solvent for drugs and as a component in pharmaceutical formulations. In the food and beverage industry, it is used as a flavouring agent and as a solvent for food additives. In the coatings industry, it is used as a solvent for paints, varnishes, and lacquers. In the perfumery industry, it is used as a solvent for fragrances and essential oils.

Ethyl acetate has a low toxicity level and is generally considered safe for use in various applications. However, prolonged exposure to high concentrations of ethyl acetate vapours can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as dizziness, headache, and nausea. Therefore, appropriate safety measures should be taken when handling ethyl acetate.

Hazards

Packing Group: 2

Hazard Phrases: Highly flammable liquid and vapour. Toxic if inhaled. May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Repeated exposure may cause skin dryness or cracking.

Prec Phrases: Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces. Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.