Methyl propionate explained

Methyl propionate, also known as methyl propanoate, is an organic compound with the molecular formula . It is a colorless liquid with a fruity, rum-like odor.^[1]

Preparation

Methyl propionate can be prepared by esterification of propionic acid with methanol. Industrially, it is prepared by carboalkoxylation, i.e., the reaction of ethylene with carbon monoxide and methanol in the presence of a catalyst:

The reaction is catalyzed by nickel carbonyl and palladium(0) complexes.^{[2] [3]}

Uses

Condensation of Methyl propionate with formaldehyde followed by dehydration yields methyl methacrylate:^[3]

Methyl propionate is used as a solvent for cellulose nitrate and lacquers, and as a raw material for the production of paints, varnishes and other chemicals such as methyl methacrylate.^{[1] [2]}

Due to its fruity smell and taste, it is also used in fragrances and flavoring.^{[1] [4]}

Notes and References

1. Web site: Methyl Propionate Hazardous Substance Fact Sheet . New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services.
2. Book: Ulf-Rainer Samel . Walter Kohler . Armin Otto Gamer . Ullrich Keuser . Propionic Acid and Derivatives . Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry . 2000 . 9783527306732 . 10.1002/14356007.a22_223.pub2. (mayth and yafs)
3. Scott D. Barnicki "Synthetic Organic Chemicals" in Handbook of Industrial Chemistry and Biotechnology edited by James A. Kent, New York : Springer, 2012. 12th ed..
4. Web site: Methyl propionate . thegoodscentscompany.com.