Etylacetát

Etylacetát is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3COOCH2CH3. It is a colorless liquid with a characteristic sweet, fruity odor. Etylacetát is an ester formed from ethanol and acetic acid. It is widely used as a solvent due to its low cost, low toxicity, and desirable volatility.

Industrially, etylacetát is produced through the Fischer esterification of ethanol with acetic acid in the presence of an acid catalyst, typically sulfuric acid. It can also be produced through the Tishchenko reaction, where acetaldehyde undergoes a disproportionation reaction catalyzed by alkoxides.

Etylacetát is a common solvent in varnishes, lacquers, and printing inks. It is also used in artificial fruit essences and perfumes due to its pleasant smell. In the pharmaceutical industry, it serves as a solvent for coatings and in the extraction of antibiotics. Its solvent properties make it useful in cleaning and degreasing applications.

The compound is relatively volatile and flammable. It is sparingly soluble in water but miscible with most organic solvents. Etylacetát can be hydrolyzed back to ethanol and acetic acid in the presence of acids or bases. Its common uses and relatively low toxicity make it a prevalent chemical in various consumer and industrial products.