Buying Guide: Methyl Acetate

If Methyl Acetate is a key ingredient in your manufacturing or industrial processes—especially in coatings, adhesives, inks, or as a solvent—this guide is designed to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Methyl Acetate is a fast-evaporating, VOC-exempt solvent used widely across industries. Known for its mild odor, low toxicity, and excellent solvency power, it serves as a great alternative to more hazardous chemicals in both industrial and commercial formulations.
Description
Methyl Acetate (also known as acetic acid methyl ester) is a clear, colorless, and flammable liquid with a fruity odor. It is commonly used as a solvent for resins, oils, fats, and cellulose derivatives in various formulations. Its low boiling point and fast evaporation rate make it especially suitable for quick-dry coatings and cleaning applications.
It is highly effective in paints, lacquers, adhesives, nail polish removers, and printing inks due to its strong solvency and compatibility with a range of substances.
Property |
Specification |
Appearance |
Clear, colorless liquid |
Purity |
≥ 99.5% (varies by grade) |
Boiling Point |
56.9°C |
Flash Point |
-10°C |
Density (25°C) |
0.932 g/cm³ |
Solubility |
Soluble in alcohols and ethers; slightly soluble in water |
Odor |
Fruity (similar to nail polish remover) |
Shelf Life |
12–24 months under proper storage |
Packaging |
180 kg drums, IBC tanks, or ISO tanks |
Methyl Acetate Applications
Methyl Acetate is versatile and widely used in the following industries:
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Coatings & Paints
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Adhesives
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Printing Inks
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Cosmetics & Personal Care
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Pharmaceuticals & Labs
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Cleaning Agents
Methyl Acetate Grades & Uses

Grade Type |
Purity Level |
Typical Use |
Industrial Grade |
≥ 99.0% |
Paints, adhesives, inks |
Cosmetic Grade |
≥ 99.5% |
Nail polish remover, fragrance carrier |
Electronic Grade |
≥ 99.9% |
Precision cleaning in electronics |
Is Methyl Acetate a Reducing Agent?
No, Methyl Acetate is not a reducing agent. It is a solvent and ester used for its chemical stability and solvency properties, not for redox reactions.
Is Methyl Acetate Toxic?
In low concentrations and under controlled usage, Methyl Acetate is considered to have low toxicity. However, high concentrations in poorly ventilated environments can cause dizziness, respiratory irritation, or headaches. Proper PPE and ventilation are recommended during use.
Is Methyl Acetate Explosive?
Methyl Acetate is flammable and forms explosive mixtures with air at certain concentrations. It should be handled in well-ventilated areas and stored away from heat, sparks, or open flames.
Methyl Acetate vs. Other Solvents
Parameter |
Methyl Acetate |
Ethyl Acetate |
Acetone |
Odor |
Mild fruity |
Strong fruity |
Sharp, pungent |
Evaporation Rate |
Fast |
Moderate |
Very fast |
VOC Status |
VOC-Exempt (US EPA) |
Not VOC-exempt |
Not VOC-exempt |
Flammability |
High |
High |
High |
Purity Standards
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Industrial Use: ≥99.0% purity, free from harmful contaminants.
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Cosmetic/Pharma Use: ≥99.5% purity with food-grade or pharma-grade certification.
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Must comply with REACH, ISO 9001, GHS, and local regulatory frameworks for specific applications.
Price & Supplier Considerations

The cost of Methyl Acetate varies based on:
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Purity grade
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Packaging type (drums, IBC tanks, etc.)
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Minimum order quantity
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Transportation and customs requirements
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Certification and compliance documentation
Key Supplier Evaluation Checklist

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COA (Certificate of Analysis) and MSDS provided
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High-purity grade confirmed by lab testing
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Secure packaging for flammable solvents
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VOC exemption certification if required
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Ability to customize packaging or blend ratios
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Reliable logistics and after-sales support
Avoid low-cost vendors lacking technical documentation or purity guarantees, as this may compromise your final product or safety compliance.

How to Buy Methyl Acetate
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Define Your Application
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Determine end use (e.g., coatings, cosmetics, cleaning).
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Choose correct purity level and volume requirements.
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Request Documentation
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Test Compatibility
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Inspect Packaging & Transport Options
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Choose a Reputable Supplier