Dimethyl oxalate
Dimethyl oxalate (CAS 553-90-2), with the molecular formula C4H6O4 and a molar mass of 118.09 g/mol, is an ester derived from oxalic acid. This compound serves as a valuable intermediate in chemical synthesis and finds application in areas such as fuel cell technology and spectroscopic research. Tech Serve Solutions supplies Dimethyl Oxalate meeting high purity standards for laboratory and industrial requirements.

Fuel Cell Research
Dimethyl oxalate has been investigated as an alternative fuel for direct oxidation fuel cells, demonstrating its potential in electrochemical energy conversion technologies.
Spectroscopic Studies
The compound is utilised in low-temperature matrix isolation studies to investigate its infrared spectra, contributing to fundamental chemical understanding.
Organic Synthesis Intermediate
As a C2 building block and carbonyl compound, Dimethyl oxalate is employed in various organic synthesis pathways for creating more complex molecules.
| Molecular weight | 118.09 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | CH3OCOCOOCH3 |
| Assay | 99% |
| Grade | ReagentPlus® |
| Boiling point | 163.5 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.148 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.39(lit.) |
| Melting point | 50-54 °C(lit.) |
| Solubility | ethanol: soluble50 mg/mL, clear to very slightly hazy, colorless |
| Application | Dimethyl oxalate (DMO) was used as alternate fuel in direct oxidation fuel cell1. DMO was used to study the IR spectra of DMO isolated in noble gas low-temperature matrices2. |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary statements
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 75 °C / 167 °F |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/37 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Dimethyl oxalate used for?
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Dimethyl oxalate (CAS 553-90-2) is used in research for fuel cell applications and spectroscopic analysis, and as an intermediate in organic synthesis.
What are the CAS number and formula for Dimethyl oxalate?
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The CAS number is 553-90-2 and the linear formula is CH3OCOCOOCH3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Dimethyl oxalate with a ReagentPlus® grade and a minimum assay of 99%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Dimethyl oxalate be handled safely?
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Dimethyl oxalate can cause skin irritation (H315) and serious eye irritation (H319). Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (N95), eyeshields, and gloves. Ensure good ventilation.
Is Dimethyl oxalate a controlled substance?
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The provided safety data does not indicate that Dimethyl oxalate is a controlled substance.
How is Dimethyl oxalate packed and shipped?
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Dimethyl oxalate is carefully packed according to industry standards for safe transport and export worldwide by Tech Serve Solutions.
How can I request a sample or quote for Dimethyl oxalate?
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To request a sample or a quotation for Dimethyl oxalate, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone.
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