Methyl 2-oxobutanoate
Methyl 2-oxobutanoate (CAS: 3952-66-7, Formula: C5H8O3) is a clear liquid with a molecular weight of 116.12 g/mol. This alpha-keto ester is an important organic building block utilised in chemical synthesis. It is employed in the creation of more complex molecules and serves as an intermediate in various chemical processes. Tech Serve Solutions offers this compound with a guaranteed assay of ≥95.0% (GC), ensuring suitability for research and development applications.
- IUPAC
- 2-Oxobutyric acid methyl ester,Methyl 2-ketobutyrate
- Synonyms
- 2-Oxobutyric acid methyl esterMethyl 2-ketobutyrate

Organic Synthesis Intermediate
Methyl 2-oxobutanoate functions as a versatile building block in organic synthesis. Its keto and ester functionalities allow for a range of chemical transformations, facilitating the construction of complex organic structures.
Chemical Research
This compound is utilised in academic and industrial research laboratories for exploring novel chemical reactions and developing new synthetic methodologies. Its availability as a reliable reagent supports R&D efforts.
Precursor for Specialty Chemicals
The molecule serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various specialty chemicals and fine chemical intermediates. It can be incorporated into multi-step synthetic pathways for targeted chemical products.
| Molecular weight | 116.12 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C5H8O3 |
| Assay | ≥95.0% (GC)95% |
| Impurities tested | ≤1.0% water |


Hazard statements
- H226Flammable liquid and vapour
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H334May cause allergy or asthma symptoms if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
- P342
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 50 °C / 122 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1993C 3 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 10-36-43 |
| 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 Methyl 2-oxobutanoate used for?
+
Methyl 2-oxobutanoate is primarily used as an intermediate in organic synthesis and in chemical research for developing new synthetic routes and molecules.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Methyl 2-oxobutanoate?
+
The CAS number is 3952-66-7 and the chemical formula is C5H8O3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Methyl 2-oxobutanoate with an assay of ≥95.0% (GC). We do not represent this product as USP, BP, EP, or any other pharmacopoeia grade.
How should Methyl 2-oxobutanoate be handled safely?
+
Methyl 2-oxobutanoate is a flammable liquid and vapour (H226) that causes serious eye irritation (H319) and may cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled (H334). Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and suitable respirator filters (type ABEK).
Is Methyl 2-oxobutanoate available for export?
+
Yes, Tech Serve Solutions is a global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals, including Methyl 2-oxobutanoate, and can accommodate international orders.
How can I request a quote or sample?
+
To request a quote or sample of Methyl 2-oxobutanoate, please contact our sales team through the TSS website or via direct inquiry.
▶ Related products

1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)piperazine
C11H15FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)biguanide hydrochloride
Chemical Synthesis

1-(2-Fluorophenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid
C10H9FO2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine
C10H13FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine monohydrochloride
C10H13FN2 · HCl
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)-1H-benzotriazole
C11H7N3O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)piperazine
C9H12N2O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-propanedione
Chemical Synthesis
▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis