1Methoxyethene

1-Methoxyethene, also known as methyl vinyl ether, is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH2=CHOCH3. It is a colorless, flammable gas at room temperature with a characteristic ether-like odor. It is a vinyl ether, meaning it contains a vinyl group (CH2=CH-) attached to an oxygen atom. This structure makes it a reactive compound, particularly susceptible to addition reactions across the double bond and polymerization.

The primary industrial application of 1-methoxyethene is as a monomer in the production of polymers and copolymers. It can be polymerized to form poly(methyl vinyl ether), a water-soluble polymer used in various applications, including adhesives, coatings, and as a dispersant. It is also copolymerized with other monomers to modify the properties of the resulting plastics. Due to its reactivity, it is also employed as a protecting group in organic synthesis, particularly for alcohols, where it forms acetals that can be easily removed under acidic conditions.

1-Methoxyethene is typically synthesized through the reaction of acetylene with methanol in the presence of a base catalyst. It is important to handle 1-methoxyethene with care due to its flammability and potential for peroxide formation upon exposure to air, which can lead to explosive hazards. It is usually stored under an inert atmosphere to prevent oxidation.