Methylal: Properties, Uses & Industrial Specifications

Methylal, also known as dimethoxymethane (DMM), is a clear, colorless, volatile organic compound with the molecular formula C₃H₈O₂ and CAS number 109-87-5. It is used in selected industrial solvent formulations, chemical synthesis, and specialty chemical applications.

Due to its low viscosity and rapid evaporation, Methylal solvent can be useful in processes that require specific drying characteristics. Manufacturers and buyers should assess compatibility, purity, handling requirements, and the intended application before selecting a commercial grade.

Methylal at a Glance

Methylal is an acetal produced commercially from methanol and formaldehyde under controlled conditions. Also called dimethoxymethane, it is valued for its volatility and solvent properties. Its performance depends on the formulation, process conditions, and the quality specifications of the supplied material.

Methylal Technical Specifications

Property	Typical Value
Trade Name	Methylal
Chemical Name	Dimethoxymethane
CAS Number	109-87-5
Molecular Formula	C₃H₈O₂
Molecular Weight	76.09 g/mol
Appearance	Clear, colorless liquid
Commercial Purity	Grade-dependent; confirm with the supplier
Density at approximately 20°C	Approximately 0.86 g/cm³
Boiling Point at Atmospheric Pressure	Approximately 42°C
Melting Point	Approximately −105°C
Flash Point	Low; confirm the test method and value in the SDS
Water Solubility	Limited; check grade-specific technical data

These figures are reference values and should be verified against the supplier’s technical data sheet (TDS) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS). The previously supplied value of −18°C was associated with an unclear freezing-point and flammability label, so it should not be assigned to either property without reliable documentation.

Key Properties of Methylal

• High volatility and rapid evaporation
• Low liquid viscosity
• Solvent properties for selected organic formulations
• Availability in different commercial grades, depending on the supplier
• Potential use as a process solvent or chemical intermediate
• Compatibility that must be verified for each formulation

The rapid evaporation of Methylal solvent may help reduce drying time in suitable processes. However, it can also shorten working time and increase vapor exposure and fire hazards. Formulators should test drying behavior, surface quality, and compatibility before introducing it into an existing system.

What Are the Industrial Uses of Methylal?

Paints and Coatings

Methylal for industrial coatings may be evaluated in selected formulations where volatility and solvent behavior are important. Before use, manufacturers should test compatibility with the resin system, application method, substrate, and required drying profile. It should not be assumed to work with every coating formulation.

Resins and Adhesives

In selected chemical processes, dimethoxymethane may be considered as a volatile organic medium or process solvent. Its suitability for acrylic, alkyd, and other resin systems depends on formulation-specific testing. Adhesion, stability, evaporation rate, and finished-product quality should be assessed before commercial use.

Chemical and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Methylal in chemical manufacturing may be relevant to selected synthesis processes and specialty chemical applications. Pharmaceutical use requires appropriate material quality, documented specifications, validated processes, and compliance with applicable regulations. Industrial-grade material should not automatically be considered suitable for pharmaceutical production.

Cosmetics and Fragrance Formulations

Specialty formulation developers may investigate volatile solvents for certain fragrance-related applications. Before considering dimethoxymethane for cosmetics or personal-care products, manufacturers must verify regulatory status, ingredient suitability, exposure risks, and finished-product safety.

Fuel and Energy Research

Dimethoxymethane has been investigated in alternative-fuel and combustion research. Its potential use depends on fuel composition, engine design, emissions testing, and applicable standards. Performance claims should be supported by relevant technical studies rather than generalized assumptions.

How to Select an Industrial Grade

Selecting the appropriate Methylal grade requires more than comparing prices. The required purity and impurity profile depend on the application, process sensitivity, and quality-control standards.

• Confirm the required purity and water content.
• Request a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (CoA).
• Review the SDS for hazards, exposure controls, and storage requirements.
• Test compatibility with resins, substrates, and other formulation ingredients.
• Compare packaging, transport arrangements, supplier consistency, and total process cost.

For buyers comparing industrial chemicals, the AasadChimie product catalog provides a starting point for exploring available products. You can also review the dedicated Methylal product page for product-related information and contact the team to confirm current specifications and supply options.

Packaging and Storage Requirements

Depending on the supplier and order quantity, commercial packaging may include compatible drums, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), or approved bulk transport systems. Because this material is volatile and flammable, packaging and transfer procedures must be appropriate for the product and local regulations.

• Keep containers tightly closed and compatible with the chemical.
• Store in a cool, well-ventilated area.
• Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources.
• Use suitable equipment and procedures when transferring the liquid.
• Follow the supplier’s SDS and applicable transport requirements.

For technical documentation, packaging details, or commercial inquiries, use the AasadChimie contact page. Additional information is available in the company’s chemical articles and industry resources.

Scientific Sources and References

• PubChem – Dimethoxymethane
• European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
• NIOSH – Occupational Safety and Health Resources