Substance profile
Pentyl formate
Pentyl formate: n-amyl formate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a plum-like odor.
01 · Identification
What Pentyl formate is
Pentyl formate: n-amyl formate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a plum-like odor. Its molecular formula is C6H12O2 and its molecular weight is 116.16 g/mol. It boils at 129 °C, melts at -73.5 °C, is miscible with water.
Under the GHS it carries the signal word Danger. It is classed as flammable agents - 3rd degree.
02 · GHS classification
Hazards and label elements
Harmonised classification under CLP Annex VI. This is the legally binding classification in the EU; other jurisdictions may differ.
| Code | Hazard statement |
|---|---|
| H226 | Flammable liquid and vapour. |
| H335 | May cause respiratory irritation. |
| H319 | Causes serious eye irritation. |
Precautionary statements: P210, P233, P241, P242, P264, P280, P305, P313, P337, P338, P403
03 · Physical and chemical properties
Pentyl formate properties
Every value is shown with the conditions it was measured under and the source it came from. Where sources disagree, all values are listed rather than one being picked — the difference is usually a different form of the substance, not an error.
| Property | Value | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiling point | 129 °C (264.2 °F) | range, midpoint shown | JECFA |
| 130.5 °C (266.9 °F) | range, midpoint shown, at 760 mmHg | HMDB | |
| Melting point | -73.5 °C (-100.3 °F) | HMDB | |
| Density | 0.884 g/cm³ | range, midpoint shown | JECFA |
| Solubility | miscible with alcohol, ether, most organic solvents | JECFA | |
| (in ethanol) | JECFA | ||
| Flash point | 26.11 °C (79 °F) | CAMEO |
Values compiled from PubChem Laboratory Chemical Safety Summary. Temperatures converted to Fahrenheit for reference.
04 · Handling and storage
Storing and handling Pentyl formate
Reactivity
N-AMYL FORMATE is an ester. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides.
Source: CAMEO Chemicals
Planning storage for a mix of chemicals? Check Pentyl formate in the storage compatibility matrix →