Methyl formate

Methyl formate, also called methyl methanoate, is the methyl ester of formic acid. It is a clear liquid with an ethereal odor, high vapor pressure and low surface tension.

Production
In the laboratory, methyl formate can be produced by the condensation reaction of methanol and formic acid, as follows:


 * HCOOH + CH3OH → HCOOCH3 + H2O

Industrial methyl formate, however, is usually produced by the combination of methanol and carbon monoxide in the presence of a strong base:


 * CH3OH + CO → HCOOCH3

Uses
Methyl formate is used primarily to manufacture formamide, dimethylformamide, and formic acid. Because of its high vapor pressure, it dries very quickly and thus is used for quick-drying finishes. It is also used as an insecticide and to manufacture certain pharmaceuticals. A historical use of methyl formate which sometimes brings it attention was in refrigeration. Before the introduction of less toxic refrigerants, methyl formate was used as an alternative to sulfur dioxide in domestic refrigerators, such as some models of the famous GE Monitor Top. Owners of methyl formate refrigerators should keep in mind that even though they operate below atmospheric pressure, if evidence of a leak develops, they should take measures to avoid exposure to the ether-smelling liquid and vapor.