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Solvents REACH

Trimethyl orthoformate

CAS Number
149-73-5
EC Number
205-745-7
Chemical Formula
C4H10O3
Molecular Weight
106.12 g/mol

Description

Trimethyl orthoformate ( CAS 149-73-5 ), commonly abbreviated as TMOF and also known as methyl orthoformate, is a reactive orthoacid ester used as a protecting group reagent and synthetic building block. It serves as a vital solvent across pharmaceutical and specialty chemical manufacturing. Its primary commercial role is enabling controlled reactions in sensitive synthesis environments where conventional reagents would cause unwanted side reactions. In pharmaceutical synthesis, TMOF acts as a methoxymethylating agent and carbonyl-protecting reagent. This enables the construction of complex active pharmaceutical ingredient intermediates with high selectivity during the manufacturing process. Agrochemical and fine chemical producers use it as a formylation reagent to introduce formate functionality into target molecules under mild conditions. This versatility makes it a staple in modern industrial chemistry. In flavor and fragrance manufacturing, it functions as a precursor to orthoester-based aroma compounds. It also serves as a stabilizing carrier solvent for sensitive fragrance ingredients that require specific chemical environments. Biotechnology applications include its use as a low-water solvent medium for enzymatic reactions. This is particularly useful where aqueous conditions would compromise yield or selectivity in delicate biological processes. The product is supplied as a colorless liquid in standard packaging ranging from small laboratory quantities to bulk drum shipments. Technical and synthesis-grade specifications are the most commonly available for industrial use. Purity levels are typically at 98% or higher for pharmaceutical and fine chemical applications. High-purity reagent-grade material is also available to meet the stricter quality requirements of API synthesis and analytical workflows. Contact us for supply of Trimethyl orthoformate Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

Methyl orthoformate | Methane, trimethoxy- | Orthoformic acid methyl ester | Orthoformic acid, trimethyl ester | Orthomravencan methylnaty | TMOF

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point15 °C
Boiling Point100.6 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density0.9676 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point60 °F
AppearanceColorless liquid
ColorClear colorless
FormLiquid
Water Solubility10 g/L (hydrolysis)
Vapor Pressure23.5 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.379(lit.)
Log P-0.03-0.09 at 20℃

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS02· FlammableGHS07· Irritant

Hazard Statements

H225Highly Flammable liquid and vapor
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H332Harmful if inhaled
H335May cause respiratory irritation

Precautionary Statements

P210Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P233Keep container tightly closed.
P240Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
P241Use explosion-proof equipment.
P242Use non-sparking tools.
P243Take action to prevent static discharges.
P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P378Use … for extinction.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P235Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep cool.
P353IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29159080
UN Number3272
ADR Class3
Packing GroupII
Storage Class3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany)1