Methyl acetate is synthesized through esterification of acetic acid with methanol. In the production of methyl acetate the formation of the two low boiling azeotropic mixtures methyl acetate/methanol and methyl acetate/water results in separation difficult product isolation.

Application

Applications. A major use of methyl acetate is as a volatile low toxicity solvent in glues, paints, and nail polish removers. Acetic anhydride is produced by carbonylation of methyl acetate in a process that was inspired by the Monsanto acetic acid synthesis.