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Information About

Methyl Formate




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 .


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