Ethyl Acetate vs Acetone: They Are Not the Same
Ethyl acetate and acetone are not the same.
They are two different organic compounds with distinct chemical structures, physical properties, and industrial applications. Although both are commonly used as industrial solvents, they are not interchangeable in many formulations.
Understanding the differences between ethyl acetate (EA, CAS 141-78-6) and acetone (CAS 67-64-1) is important for chemical buyers, formulators, and manufacturers.
Differences Between Ethyl Acetate and Acetone
Chemical Formula & Structure
Ethyl Acetate
- Chemical formula: CH₃COOCH₂CH₃ (C₄H₈O₂)
- Chemical type: Ester
Acetone
- Chemical formula: (CH₃)₂CO (C₃H₆O)
- Chemical type: Ketone
Because they belong to different functional groups, their chemical behavior and industrial compatibility are fundamentally different.
Physical Properties
Boiling Point
Ethyl acetate boiling point: ~77.1–77.2°C
Acetone boiling point: ~55.75°C
→ Acetone evaporates faster than ethyl acetate.
Density (20°C)
Ethyl acetate density: ~0.89–0.90 g/cm³
Acetone density: ~0.78 g/cm³
Odor
Ethyl acetate has a pleasant fruity or sweet odor, widely used in flavors and fragrances.
Acetone has a strong, sharp, irritating odor, commonly associated with nail polish remover.
These differences directly affect user comfort, workplace safety, and formulation design.
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Chemical Properties
Ethyl Acetate (EA Solvent)
- As an ester, ethyl acetate mainly undergoes:
- Hydrolysis (in the presence of water, acids, or bases)
- Transesterification reactions
Acetone
As a ketone, acetone is more chemically reactive and can undergo:
- Nucleophilic addition reactions (e.g. with hydrogen cyanide)
- Reduction (to isopropanol)
- Halogenation reactions
This makes acetone more reactive, while ethyl acetate is generally more chemically stable in industrial use.
Solubility in Water
Acetone is completely miscible with water, making it suitable for water-based systems.
Ethyl acetate is only slightly soluble in water, but fully miscible with most organic solvents such as:
- Alcohols
- Ketones
- Hydrocarbons
This difference is critical when selecting solvents for coatings, inks, adhesives, and extraction processes.
Industrial Applications
Ethyl Acetate Uses
Ethyl acetate is widely used as an industrial solvent in:
- Coatings and paints
- Adhesives and sealants
- Printing inks (flexographic & gravure)
- Pharmaceuticals and chemical synthesis
- Flavors and fragrances
It is valued for its fast evaporation, good solvency, and relatively low toxicity.
Acetone Uses
Acetone is commonly used in:
- Laboratories and chemical synthesis
- Plastics and fiber manufacturing
- Cleaning and degreasing applications
- Dissolving resins, oils, and adhesives
Full specification, COA, and MSDS are available upon request.
Packaging & Bulk Supply
To meet different purchasing needs, Gneebio offers flexible packaging options:
- 180 kg steel drums
- 1000 kg IBC tanks
- Bulk ISO tank supply
MOQ and packaging can be customized based on your order volume and destination port.
Export & Compliance Support
As an experienced ethyl acetate exporter, Gneebio supports global shipments with complete documentation:
- MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)
- COA (Certificate of Analysis)
- TDS (Technical Data Sheet)
- REACH compliance support (if required)
We regularly export ethyl acetate to Asia, the Middle East, South America, and other international markets.
Why Choose Gneebio as Your Ethyl Acetate Supplier?
- Direct manufacturer with stable production capacity
- Consistent quality and strict QC standards
- Competitive bulk pricing
- Fast response for MSDS & COA requests
- Rich export experience and reliable logistics support
- Our goal is to build long-term partnerships by supplying reliable ethyl acetate at competitive prices.
Get Ethyl Acetate Price & Technical Documents
Looking for ethyl acetate price per ton or bulk supply details?
📩 Contact Gneebio today to receive:
- Latest ethyl acetate price
- MSDS & COA
- Packaging and MOQ details
- Technical consultation
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