Compounds:Dimethyl carbonate

Dimethyl carbonate (DMC) is an organic compound with the formula OC(OCH3)2. It is a colourless, flammable liquid. It is classified as a carbonate ester. This compound has found use as a methylating agent and more recently as a solvent that is exempt from classification as a volatile organic compound (VOC) in the US. Dimethyl carbonate is often considered to be a green reagent.

Name:Dimethyl carbonate

EINECS:210-478-4

Molecular Formula:C3H6O3

CAS Registry Number:616-38-6 

Synonyms:Methyl carbonate; Carbonic acid dimethyl ester; DIMETHYL CARBONATE-D6; DIMETHYL-D6 CARBONATE; DMC

InChI:InChI=1/C3H6O3/c1-5-3(4)6-2/h1-2H3

Appearance:colourless liquid

Molecular Weight:90.08

Density:1.069

Boiling Point:90℃

Melting Point:2-4℃

Flash Point:18℃

Storage Temperature:Flammables area

Refractive index:1.3672-1.3692

Solubility:139 g/L in water

Stability:Stable. Highly flammable. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, potassium t-butoxide.

Chemical Properties:colourless liquid 

General Description:A clear, colorless liquid with a pleasant odor. Flash point 66°F. Denser than water and slightly soluble in water. Vapors are heavier than air. Used to make other chemicals and as a special purpose solvent. 

Air & Water Reactions: Highly flammable. Slightly soluble in water. 

Reactivity Profile: Dimethyl carbonate reacts with acids to liberate heat along with methanol and carbon dioxide. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing with alkali metals and hydrides. 

Health Hazard: May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin. Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution. 

Fire Hazard: Highly flammable: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water.