Methyl formate - Definition

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:

HCOOH + CH₃OH → HCOOCH₃ + H₂O

Industrial methyl formate, however, is usually produced by the combination of methanol and carbon monoxide in the presence of a strong base:

CH₃OH + CO → HCOOCH₃

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.

More info

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External links

• NIST Chemistry WebBook - Methyl formate (http://webbook.nist.gov/cgi/cbook.cgi?ID=107-31-3&Units=SI&cMS=on)
• ChemicalLand21.com entry on METHYL FORMATE (http://www.chemicalland21.com/arokorhi/industrialchem/organic/METHYL%20FORMATE.htm)