etyyliformaatti

Etyyliformaatti is the ethyl ester of formic acid, with the chemical formula C3H6O2. It is a colorless liquid with a characteristic fruity odor. It is also known as ethyl formate. Etyyliformaatti is soluble in water and many organic solvents. It is naturally found in some fruits and is produced industrially through the esterification of formic acid with ethanol.

This compound finds several applications. It is used as a solvent in various industries, including in the production of lacquers and perfumes. Etyyliformaatti also serves as a flavoring agent in the food industry, contributing a rum-like flavor to certain products. Historically, it has been used as a fumigant for tobacco and grains due to its insecticidal properties, although its use in this capacity has declined due to environmental and health concerns. It can also be employed as a reagent in organic synthesis. Etyyliformaatti is flammable and should be handled with care. Its vapors can form explosive mixtures with air.