Agrochemicals

Dimethyl Carbonate (CAS No. 616-38-6) 

1. Basic Information

• Chemical Name: Dimethyl Carbonate
• Synonyms: DMC; Methyl carbonate; Carbonic acid dimethyl ester
• CAS Number: 616-38-6
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₆O₃
• Molecular Weight: 90.08 g/mol
• Appearance: Colorless liquid
• Odor: Mild, ester-like odor

2. Physical and Chemical Properties

• Melting Point: 2–4 °C (36–39 °F)
• Boiling Point: 90 °C (194 °F)
• Density: 1.07 g/cm³ (at 20 °C)
• Solubility:
  • Water: Slightly soluble (13 g/L at 20 °C)
  • Organic solvents: Miscible with alcohols, ethers, benzene
• Refractive Index: 1.368–1.369 (20 °C)
• Flash Point: 17 °C (63 °F) (closed cup) – Highly Flammable
• Vapor Pressure: 62 mmHg at 20 °C

3. Chemical Structure

    O  
   ║  
CH₃-O-C-O-CH₃

4. Hazards (GHS Classification)

• Flammability: Highly flammable liquid (H225)
• Health Hazards:
  • Eye/Irritation: Causes mild irritation (H319)
  • Inhalation: May cause dizziness or respiratory tract irritation (H336)
• Environmental Hazards: Low toxicity to aquatic life (H402)
• NFPA Rating: Health 1, Flammability 3, Reactivity 0

5. Storage and Handling

• Storage: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat/sparks/open flames. Use explosion-proof equipment.
• Handling: Use PPE (gloves, goggles, vapor respirator) and ground containers to prevent static discharge.

6. Applications

• Green Solvent: Replacement for toxic solvents (e.g., MTBE, DCM) in coatings, adhesives.
• Chemical Synthesis: Methylating/ carbonylating agent in pharmaceuticals (e.g., pesticides, polycarbonates).
• Electrolytes: Used in lithium-ion batteries.