Ethyl Acetate

1Identification

Name

Ethyl Acetate

IUPAC name

ethyl acetate

CAS number

141-78-6

EC number

205-500-4

Molecular formula

C4H8O2

Molecular weight

88.11 g/mol

InChIKey

XEKOWRVHYACXOJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

CCOC(=O)C

PubChem CID

8857

Synonyms

ETHYL ACETATE, Ethyl ethanoate, Acetic acid ethyl ester, Vinegar naphtha, Acetoxyethane, Acetic ether, Ethyl acetic ester, Acetic acid, ethyl ester, Acetidin, Ethylacetate, Essigester, Acetic ester, EtOAc, Aethylacetat

Recommended uses

• CIR ingredient: Ethyl Acetate
  Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
• Used as a solvent for organic chemicals and surface coatings; [ACGIH]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Painting (Solvents) [Category: Paint]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Solvent Dispersing agent Chain transfer agent Other Binder Wrinkle resisting agent Processing aids not otherwise specified Fuel Cleaning agent Fragrance Diluent Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Sealant (barrier) Intermediate Pigment Adhesion/cohesion promoter
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Pigment Adhesion/cohesion promoter Fragrance Sealant (barrier) Filler Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Solubility enhancer Dispersing agent Solvent Other
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: EPA Safer Chemical Functional Use Classes -> Solvents · Safer Chemical Classes -> Green half-circle - The chemical is expected to be of low concern · Fragrance Ingredients · Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENTFood Additives -> CARRIER_SOLVENT -> JECFA Functional Classes

Description

• Ethyl acetate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a fruity odor. Flash point 24 °F. Less dense than water. Vapors heavier than air.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Ethyl acetate is the acetate ester formed between acetic acid and ethanol. It has a role as a metabolite, a polar aprotic solvent, a Saccharomyces cerevisiae metabolite and an EC 3.4.19.3 (pyroglutamyl-peptidase I) inhibitor. It is a volatile organic compound, an ethyl ester and an acetate ester.
  ChEBI
• ethyl acetate has been reported in Angelica gigas, Lucensosergia lucens, and other organisms with data available.
  LOTUS - the natural products occurrence database

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS02, GHS07

Classification source

Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

7 classification records exist across sources. Differences usually reflect purity, physical form or impurities.

NFPA 704 rating

• 1 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause significant irritation.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 3 - Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions. Materials produce hazardous atmospheres with air under almost all ambient temperatures or, though unaffected by ambient temperatures, are readily ignited under almost all conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• Headache, irritation of respiratory passages and eyes, dizziness and nausea, weakness, loss of consciousness. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · 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 asphyxiation, especially when in closed or confined areas. · Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Fire hazards

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious)]: 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 the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids will float on water. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · 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 the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.). · Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. · Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. · Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. · Containers may explode when heated. · Many liquids will float on water.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• Highly flammable. Vapour/air mixtures are explosive. Heating will cause rise in pressure with risk of bursting.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• Ethyl acetate is in the list of Some volatile substances which may be abused by inhalation published on the web site of the U.N. International Drug Control Programme, indicating its potential to cause narcosis in workers. [Reference #1] An eye and respiratory tract irritant; Inhalation of high concentrations may cause CNS effects; [ICSC]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases

3Composition / information on ingredients

This page describes the pure substance. Commercial products may be solutions or mixtures. Check Section 3 of your supplier's SDS for concentrations and other ingredients.

4First-aid measures

• EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• General First Aid: · Call 911 or emergency medical service. · Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination. · Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely. · Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. · If victim is not breathing: -- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance. -- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• (General first aid procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Skin: Water flush promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, flush the contaminated skin with water promptly. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water promptly. If irritation persists after washing, get medical attention. Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Symptoms of exposure

• Sore throat. Cough. Headache. Drowsiness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Dry skin.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• Cool exposed containers with water.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Use carbon dioxide, dry chemical, or alcohol foam.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious)]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Immediate precautionary measure · Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Large Spill · Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). Fire · If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Spill cleanup

• Remove all ignition sources. Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES. Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Beware of vapours accumulating to form explosive concentrations. Vapours can accumulate in low areas.; Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains.;
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 1. Remove all ignition sources. 2. Ventilate area of spill or leak. 3. For small quantities, absorb on paper towels. Evaporate in a safe place (such as a fume hood). Allow sufficient time for evaporating vapors to completely clear the hood ductwork. Burn the paper in a suitable location away from combustible materials. Large quantities can be collected and atomized in a suitable combustion chamber. Ethyl acetate should not be allowed to enter a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 1. By absorbing it in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or a similar material.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants, strong bases and strong acids.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Keep tightly closed in cool place.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• During transport: stable during transport. Storage temperature: ambient. Venting: open (flame arrester) or pressure-vacuum.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• ... Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Ethyl acetate: Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated. Remove: WHEN WET (FLAMMABLE) - Work clothing that becomes wet should be immediately removed due to its flammability hazard (i.e., for liquids with a flash point <100 °F). Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift. (NIOSH, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Organic vapor canister or air mask; goggles or face shield.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Wear protective gloves and clothing to prevent any reasonable probability of skin contact..
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Breakthrough times greater than one hour reported by (normally) two or more testers for butyl rubber (Butyl). Some data usually from immersion tests suggesting breakthrough times greater than one hour are not likely for natural rubber (Nat Rub), polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Breakthrough times less (usually significantly less) than one hour reported by (normally) two or more testers for neoprene (Neop), nitrile rubber (nitrile), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). No data for neoprene /styrene-butadiene rubber (Neop/ SBR), nitrile rubber/polyvinyl chloride (Nitrile/PVC), chlorinated polyethylene (CPE), polyurethane (PU), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and viton.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Respirator recommendations

• NIOSH/OSHA Up to 2000 ppm: (APF = 25) Any supplied-air respirator operated in a continuous-flow mode (APF = 25) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s) (APF = 50) Any chemical cartridge respirator with a full facepiece and organic vapor cartridge(s) (APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister (APF = 50) Any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece (APF = 50) Any supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece Emergency or planned entry into unknown concentrations or IDLH conditions: (APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• ETHYL ACETATE is also sensitive to heat. On prolonged storage, materials containing similar functional groups have formed explosive peroxides. This chemical may ignite or explode with lithium aluminum hydride. It may also ignite with potassium tert-butoxide. It is incompatible with nitrates, strong alkalis and strong acids. It will attack some forms of plastics, rubber and coatings. It is incompatible with oxidizers such as hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid, perchloric acid and chromium trioxide. Violent reactions occur with chlorosulfonic acid. (NTP, 1992).
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Highly flammable. Slightly soluble in water. This chemical is slowly hydrolyzed by moisture.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• ... can react vigorously with oxidizing materials ... Potentially explosive reaction with lithium tetrahydroaluminate. Ignites on contact with potassium teri-butoxide. Violent reaction with chlorosulfonic acid, (LiAIH2 + 2-chloromethyl furan), oleum.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Incompatible with strong acids; strong alkalies; nitrates, strong oxidizers; chlorosulfonic acid; lithium aluminium hydride ...
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Nitrates, strong oxidizers, alkalis & acids.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

• Slowly decomp by moisture.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Target organs

• Eyes, skin, respiratory system
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is mildly irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system. Exposure far above the OEL could cause lowering of consciousness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

12Ecological information

Not available in the public sources we compile. Check Section 12 of the supplier's SDS.

13Disposal considerations

• Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste numbers U112 and F003, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Incineration: Burn waste material in an approved waste disposal incinerator.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 1173

Shipping name

• UN 1173; Ethyl acetate
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• IMO 3; Ethyl acetate
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Ethyl acetate
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• UN1173
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Class 3 Flammable and combustible liquid (49 eCFR § 173.120)
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172

DOT label

• Flammable Liquid
  CAMEO Chemicals

UN classification

• UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: II
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Emergency Response Guidebook

• 1173 129
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Ethyl acetate is produced, as an intermediate or final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Residues of ethyl acetate are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops only. Use: solvent, cosolvent.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• As the federal pesticide law FIFRA directs, EPA is conducting a comprehensive review of older pesticides to consider their health and environmental effects and make decisions about their continued use. Under this pesticide reregistration program, EPA examines newer health and safety data for pesticide active ingredients initially registered before November 1, 1984, and determines whether the use of the pesticide does not pose unreasonable risk in accordance to newer saftey standards, such as those described in the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 5000 lb or 2270 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• U112; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when ethyl acetate, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Certification of this color additive when used as a diluent (in inks for marking fruit & vegetables) is not necessary for the protection of the public health and therefore batches thereof are exempt from the requirements of section 706(c) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. /Restrictions incl no residue./
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Overview of SDS regulations (OSHA HazCom, WHMIS, REACH/CLP) →

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 8857 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.