Formaldehyde diethyl acetal
Formaldehyde diethyl acetal (CAS 462-95-3), with the molecular formula CH2(OC2H5)2 and a molecular weight of 104.15, is a valuable organic compound belonging to the acetal family. This clear, colourless liquid serves as a key building block in organic synthesis. Its primary utility lies in its role as a protective group for aldehydes and as a reactive intermediate in the construction of more complex organic molecules, particularly within the pharmaceutical and fine chemical industries.
- IUPAC
- Diethoxymethane,Ethylal
- Synonyms
- DiethoxymethaneEthylal

Organic Synthesis Intermediate
Formaldehyde diethyl acetal is frequently employed as a versatile building block in multi-step organic syntheses. It can introduce a protected formaldehyde unit into molecules, which can be deprotected under acidic conditions when required.
Protecting Group Chemistry
It serves as an effective protecting group for aldehydes, preventing unwanted reactions at the carbonyl group during synthetic transformations. The acetal moiety is stable to basic and nucleophilic conditions, allowing for selective reactions elsewhere in the molecule.
Reagent in Fine Chemical Production
This compound finds application in the synthesis of various fine chemicals and specialty organic compounds. Its reactivity profile makes it suitable for specific coupling and derivatisation reactions.
| Molecular weight | 104.15 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | CH2(OC2H5)2 |
| Assay | ≥99.0% (GC) |
| Boiling point | 87-88 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 0.831 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.373(lit.)n20/D 1.374 |
| Vapour pressure | 60 mmHg (25 °C) |
| Vapour density | 3.6 (vs air) |
| Autoignition temp | 346 °F |


Hazard statements
- H225Highly flammable liquid and vapour
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P210Keep away from heat, sparks and open flames. No smoking
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | -5 °C / 23 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2373 3 / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | F,Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 11-36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 16-26-36 |
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 Formaldehyde diethyl acetal used for?
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Formaldehyde diethyl acetal is primarily used as a versatile building block in organic synthesis and as a protecting group for aldehydes in chemical manufacturing.
What are the CAS number and chemical formula for Formaldehyde diethyl acetal?
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The CAS number is 462-95-3 and the chemical formula is CH2(OC2H5)2.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Formaldehyde diethyl acetal with an assay of ≥99.0% (GC). We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Formaldehyde diethyl acetal be handled safely?
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Formaldehyde diethyl acetal is highly flammable (Flash Point -5 °C) and an irritant (H315-H319-H335). Handle in a well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources, using appropriate personal protective equipment including eyeshields, gloves, and a suitable respirator.
Is Formaldehyde diethyl acetal a controlled substance?
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The provided data does not indicate that Formaldehyde diethyl acetal is a controlled substance.
How is Formaldehyde diethyl acetal packed and shipped?
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Formaldehyde diethyl acetal is shipped as a UN 2373, Class 3, Packing Group II hazardous material, in compliance with international transport regulations for flammable liquids.
How can I request a quote or sample for Formaldehyde diethyl acetal?
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Please contact the Tech Serve Solutions sales team directly via our website or by phone to request a quotation or a sample of Formaldehyde diethyl acetal.
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