| Identification | Back Directory | [Name]
methyl nitrate | [CAS]
598-58-3 | [Synonyms]
Nitrooxymethane
Nitric acid methyl
Nitric acid, Methylester (8CI,9CI) | [EINECS(EC#)]
209-941-3 | [Molecular Formula]
CH3NO3 | [MOL File]
598-58-3.mol | [Molecular Weight]
77.04 |
| Hazard Information | Back Directory | [Chemical Properties]
liquid | [Uses]
Has been used as rocket propellant. Does not need external oxygen for combustion. | [Hazard]
Explodes when heated, severe hazard whenexposed to heat or shock. Narcotic, strong irritantto tissue. | [Purification Methods]
Wash MeONO2 once with H2O then again with H2O containing a few drops of concentrated NaOH to keep it slightly alkaline (litmus). Dry the ester over anhydrous CaCl2, decant it and use it directly. It is possible to distil it under a vacuum with slow and gentle heating, as a sudden rise in temperature can cause decomposition with copious release of nitrous fumes (use extreme precautions and protection). The middle fraction can then be subjected to several freeze-pump-thaw cycles. [Black & Bakers Org Synth Col Vol II 412 1943.] [Beilstein 1 H 284, 1 I 141, 1 II 273, 1 III 1201, 1 IV 1254.] The VAPOUR CAN EXPLODE ON HEATING. |
| Safety Data | Back Directory | [RIDADR ]
0473 | [HazardClass ]
1.1A | [Safety Profile]
Poison by ingestion.
Moderately toxic by inhalation. A dangerous
fire and explosion hazard by spontaneous chemical reaction. A very shockand heat-sensitive
explosive. Explodes when heated
to 65℃. It does not require external O2 for
combustion. A rocket fuel. When heated to
decomposition it emits toxic fumes of NOx. |
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