Ethyl Acetate (C₄H₈O₂) is a clear, colourless liquid with a characteristic fruity odour. It is a fast-evaporating, low-boiling solvent widely used across industrial, laboratory, and commercial applications. Known for its excellent solvency, low toxicity, and biodegradability, Ethyl Acetate is one of the most versatile esters available.
It is extensively applied in the coatings and paints industry as a solvent for resins, in the adhesives and printing sectors for quick-drying formulations, and in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries as an extraction agent and fragrance component. Ethyl Acetate is also used in food processing (in regulated applications) as a flavouring agent and in laboratory settings as a standard solvent for chromatography and sample preparation.
Its balance of strong solvency, quick evaporation, and relatively low cost makes it a preferred choice in numerous industries.
Ethyl Acetate
Chemical formula C4H8O2
Molar mass 88.106 g·mol−1
Appearance Colourless liquid
Odour nail polish-like, fruity
Density 0.902 g/cm3
Melting point −83.6 °C (−118.5 °F; 189.6 K)
Boiling point 77.1 °C (170.8 °F; 350.2 K)
Solubility in water 8.3 g/100 mL (at 20 °C)
6 Science Ethyl Acetate is available in 1 litre bottles to comply with regulations for shipping and in agro chemical strong and secure bottles.
Hazard Statements
Hazard Statements
H225 Highly flammable liquid and vapor.
H319 Causes serious eye irritation.
H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness.
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.
P242 Use non-sparking tools.
P305 + P351 + P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue
rinsing.
Supplemental Hazard information (EU)
EUH066 Repeated exposure may cause skin dryness or cracking.
Uses
Here are the main uses of Ethyl Acetate:
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Paints & Coatings – used as a solvent for resins, varnishes, and lacquers due to its fast evaporation rate.
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Adhesives – widely applied in glues and binding agents for its excellent solvency.
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Printing Industry – used in printing inks, flexographic and rotogravure processes for quick-drying properties.
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Pharmaceuticals – employed as a solvent in drug formulations and in the extraction of active ingredients.
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Cosmetics & Personal Care – used in perfumes, nail polish removers, and other cosmetic products.
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Food Industry (regulated use) – serves as a flavouring agent and solvent for decaffeination and tea/coffee extraction.
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Laboratory Applications – commonly used as a solvent in chromatography and analytical testing.
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Chemical Manufacturing – acts as an intermediate in producing synthetic leather, artificial silk, and other chemicals.
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