AMYL FORMATE

Chemical Properties

Amyl formate has a fruit-like aroma

Chemical Properties

Colorless liquid composed of a mixture of isomeric amyl formates with isoamyl formate in predominance. Plum-like odor. Less odoriferous and more active solvent than amyl acetate. It also has both a lower boiling point and a higher rate of evaporation. Miscible with oils, hydrocarbons, alcohols, ketones; slightly soluble in water.

Occurrence

Identified in apple, strawberry, tomato, fried cured pork, cognac, honey and Pyrus malus

Uses

Solvent for cellulose esters, resins; solvent mixtures; films and coatings; perfume for leather; flavoring.

Preparation

From n-amyl alcohol and formic acid in the presence of H2SO4

Definition

ChEBI: Pentyl formate is a carboxylic ester.

General Description

A clear colorless liquid with a plum-like odor. Flash point 79°F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors are heavier than air.

Air & Water Reactions

Highly flammable. Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

AMYL FORMATE is an ester. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides.

Hazard

Flammable, dangerous fire risk. Toxic by ingestion and inhalation.

Health Hazard

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 suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

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 ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water.

Flammability and Explosibility

Flammable

Safety Profile

Very low toxicity by several routes. A skin irritant. See also ESTERS. Dangerously flammable; reacts vigorously with heat, flame, oxidizing materials. To fight fire, use foam, Co2, dry chemical.