Diethyl Ether | CAS 60-29-7
Basic Information
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 60-29-7 |
| IUPAC Name | 1,1'-Oxybisethane |
| Molecular Formula | C4H10O |
| Molecular Weight | 74.12 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless, clear liquid |
| Purity (GC) | ≥ 99.5% |
| Density (20°C) | 0.713–0.716 g/mL |
| Boiling Point | 34.4–34.7 °C |
| Flash Point | -45 °C |
| Refractive Index | 1.352–1.354 (20°C) |
| Peroxide content | ≤ 1 ppm (pharma grade) |
| Water content | ≤ 0.05% (KF) |
Introduction
Diethyl ether (CAS 60-29-7) is a colorless, highly volatile organic compound — one of the oldest known synthetic chemicals. It is widely used as a polar aprotic solvent across pharmaceutical, chemical, and laboratory applications.
Key physical properties that make it invaluable:
- Exceptionally low boiling point (34.6°C): Easy removal from reaction mixtures by evaporation at room temperature
- Selective miscibility: Partially miscible with water (6.9 g/100 mL at 20°C), fully miscible with most organic solvents — ideal for liquid-liquid extraction
- High vapor pressure (440 mmHg at 20°C): Rapid evaporation for clean recovery of products
Sunchem works directly with GMP-certified manufacturers in Jiangsu and Shandong to supply pharmaceutical-grade and industrial-grade diethyl ether at competitive FOB prices.
Key Applications
Pharmaceutical & API Manufacturing
- Extraction and purification of alkaloids, antibiotics, and APIs
- Reaction solvent for Grignard reactions, lithiation chemistry, and organometallic chemistry
- Crystallization solvent for pharmaceutical intermediates
- Formulation of topical preparations
Laboratory & Analytical
- Liquid-liquid extraction in analytical sample preparation
- Solvent for TLC and column chromatography
- Preparation of anhydrous reaction media (absolute ether)
- GC calibration reference
Industrial Applications
- Starting fluid for diesel/gasoline engines in cold climates
- Solvent for fats, waxes, gums, resins, and natural rubber
- Solvent for nitrocellulose lacquers and varnishes
- Perfume and flavor extraction (maceration)
Safety & Handling
⚠️ Extremely flammable liquid — Flash Point -45°C
- Vapors are heavier than air; can travel to ignition sources
- Forms explosive peroxides on prolonged storage/exposure to light — test before use if stored >6 months
- UN1155; Packing Group I; Hazard Class 3
- Store in amber containers with BHT inhibitor; keep tightly sealed
Packaging
- Laboratory: 2.5 L / 25 L amber glass bottles or metal cans (with BHT stabilizer)
- Industrial: 180 kg iron drums
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between anhydrous and regular diethyl ether?
Anhydrous (absolute) ether has water ≤0.001% for moisture-sensitive reactions (e.g., Grignard). Regular grade (≥99.5%) has ≤0.05% water, suitable for extraction and general lab use.
Q: How do I prevent peroxide formation in stored diethyl ether?
Store in amber containers, keep tightly sealed, add BHT inhibitor, and test for peroxides before use if stored >6 months. Never evaporate to dryness without first testing for peroxides.
Q: Is pharmaceutical-grade diethyl ether available?
Yes — BP/USP/EP standard with peroxide ≤1 ppm, water ≤0.05%, full COA including GC purity, density, and refractive index.
Q: Are there import restrictions?
Diethyl ether is controlled/monitored in some countries as a drug precursor. Most countries allow import for industrial/pharmaceutical use with end-use certificates.