Methyl formate

Methyl formate, also called methyl methanoate, is the methyl ester of formic acid. It is a clear liquid with an ethereal odor, high vapor pressure and low surface tension.

[edit] Production

In the laboratory, methyl formate can be produced by the condensation reaction of methanol and formic acid, as follows:

HCOOH + CH₃OH → HCOOCH₃ + H₂O

Industrial methyl formate, however, is usually produced by the combination of methanol and carbon monoxide in the presence of a strong base:

CH₃OH + CO → HCOOCH₃

Methyl formate is used primarily to manufacture formamide, dimethylformamide, and formic acid. Because of its high vapor pressure, it dries very quickly and thus is used for quick-drying finishes. It is also used as an insecticide and to manufacture certain pharmaceuticals.