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Methylal

Updated: 2026-07-22

Overview

Formaldehyde acetal, commonly known as methylal or dimethoxymethane, is a colorless, volatile liquid with a distinctive ether-like odor. It is widely used in industrial applications due to its solvent properties and reactivity. The compound is synthesized through the reaction of formaldehyde with methanol, making it a versatile intermediate in chemical manufacturing. Formaldehyde acetal is particularly valued for its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds, making it a preferred solvent in coatings, adhesives, and resins. Its low boiling point and high volatility also make it useful in specialized applications such as fuel additives and aerosol propellants.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Formaldehyde acetal exhibits several notable physical and chemical properties. It has a molecular weight of 76.09 g/mol and a density of 0.86 g/cm³, making it lighter than water. The compound is highly flammable, with a boiling point of 42-45°C and a melting point of -105°C, which means it remains liquid under most ambient conditions. Chemically, formaldehyde acetal is reactive with strong oxidizing agents and can form explosive mixtures with air. It is soluble in water and most organic solvents, which enhances its utility as a solvent in various industrial processes. Its volatility and flammability necessitate careful handling and storage to prevent accidents.

Main Applications

The primary applications of formaldehyde acetal are in the production of resins, where it acts as a cross-linking agent and solvent. It is extensively used in the manufacture of phenolic and urea-formaldehyde resins, which are essential in wood adhesives and molded plastics. The compound's solvent properties also make it valuable in coatings, inks, and cleaning formulations. Additionally, formaldehyde acetal serves as a fuel additive due to its ability to improve combustion efficiency and reduce emissions. Its use in aerosol propellants and as a reaction medium in organic synthesis further underscores its versatility in industrial chemistry.

Safety and Storage

Handling formaldehyde acetal requires strict adherence to safety protocols due to its high flammability and reactivity. Personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, goggles, and respirators, should be worn to prevent skin contact and inhalation. The compound should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and open flames. Spills should be contained immediately using absorbent materials, and contaminated areas should be ventilated thoroughly. Fire extinguishers suitable for flammable liquids, such as dry chemical or CO2 extinguishers, should be readily available in storage and handling areas.

B2B Procurement Guide

When procuring formaldehyde acetal, B2B buyers should prioritize suppliers with verified certifications and a track record of reliability. Requesting a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is essential to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Bulk purchases often provide cost savings, but buyers should confirm storage capabilities to handle large quantities safely. Quality assurance is critical; buyers should specify purity requirements and request certificates of analysis (CoA) for each batch. Establishing long-term contracts with reputable suppliers can help secure consistent quality and favorable pricing, especially for high-volume industrial users.

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