Description
Specifications Table
Product Name – Ethyl formate
Quantity/Pack Size – 100 ml
Form – Liquid
Grade – Analytical/Reagent
Application – Solvent, flavor extraction, chromatography
Product Overview
Ethyl formate (C₃H₆O₂) is a colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic fruity odor, widely recognized for its high solubility in organic solvents and moderate solubility in water. This reagent-grade compound boasts a minimum purity of 99%, making it a reliable choice for precise laboratory applications where consistency and low impurity levels are critical. Its low boiling point (54°C) and rapid evaporation rate enhance its utility in processes requiring quick solvent removal, such as thin-layer chromatography or sample preparation for spectroscopic analysis. The ester’s molecular structure contributes to its effectiveness as a polar aprotic solvent, facilitating reactions like nucleophilic substitutions or esterifications without interfering with sensitive functional groups. Packaged in amber glass bottles to prevent photodegradation, this ethyl formate variant is stabilized to minimize hydrolysis during storage, ensuring long-term stability under standard lab conditions. Its compatibility with common laboratory materials like PTFE, glass, and stainless steel further expands its versatility across diverse experimental setups.
FAQs
1. What is the shelf life of ethyl formate when stored unopened?
The shelf life is typically 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored in a tightly sealed container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Hydrolysis can occur over time, so it’s advisable to check for cloudiness or odor changes before use in critical applications.
2. Can ethyl formate be used as a substitute for ethyl acetate in extractions?
While both are esters, ethyl formate has a lower boiling point and different polarity, which may alter extraction efficiency. It can replace ethyl acetate in some cases, but optimization of conditions (e.g., temperature, solvent ratios) is recommended to achieve comparable results, especially for polar analytes.
3. Is this ethyl formate compatible with plastic labware like polypropylene?
Prolonged exposure may cause swelling or degradation in some plastics. For short-term use, HDPE or PTFE are safer alternatives, but glass or stainless steel containers are ideal for storage and prolonged contact to prevent contamination or container failure.
4. What safety precautions should be taken when handling ethyl formate?
Use in a fume hood due to its volatile nature and potential respiratory irritation. Wear nitrile gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat to avoid skin contact. Ensure proper ventilation, as vapors can form flammable mixtures with air. Avoid open flames or spark sources nearby.
5. How does the purity of this ethyl formate compare to HPLC-grade variants?
This reagent-grade ethyl formate (99% purity) is suitable for general lab use but may contain trace impurities like water or ethanol. HPLC-grade variants undergo additional purification to remove UV-absorbing contaminants, making them better for sensitive chromatographic applications where baseline noise is a concern.
