Methyl Acetate
Methyl acetate is a neutral, colorless liquid with a mild, ester-like odor. It is miscible with organic solvents and exhibits partial miscibility with water. At 20°C, it has a solubility of 25 wt% in water but absorbs only 8 wt% water. The binary azeotrope with water boils at 56.4°C and contains 3.5% water.
Solvent Power
Methyl acetate is an excellent solvent for a wide range of substances, including nitrocellulose, cellulose acetate, other cellulose derivatives (ethers, celluloid), polyvinyl acetate, numerous resins, plasticizers, and most fats, oils, and waxes of petroleum or animal origin.
Applications
Owing to its high volatility, methyl acetate is a key component in fast-evaporating applications such as quick-drying lacquers and adhesives. Its primary uses include:
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Formulating low-viscosity varnish solutions.
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Softening shoe toe stiffeners and linings.
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Producing adhesives from celluloid film scraps.
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Serving as a solvent in the perfume industry and in the synthesis of organic colorants for inks.