Dimethyl Oxalate CAS 553-90-2

1. Dimethyl oxalate CAS 553-90-2 is a versatile chemical intermediate used in pharmaceutical synthesis for active ingredients like integrase inhibitors for HIV, and as a precursor to ethylene glycol via catalytic hydrogenation .
2. The compound serves as a key building block in agrochemicals for producing pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides, and is also used as a methylating agent, solvent, and plasticizer .
3. Dimethyl oxalate  is employed in condensation reactions to prepare various fine chemicals and organic intermediates, including applications in metal processing and the textile industry .

1. Store Dimethyl oxalate in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place below +30°C, as it is stable but decomposes in hot water and is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, acids, and bases .
2. Keep Dimethyl oxalate CAS 553-90-2 in a dark, cool location (<15°C) with a shelf life of up to 24 months; the solid may have a slight acrid odor and is soluble in alcohol and ether but only slightly soluble in cold water .
3. Handle Dimethyl oxalate using appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves, safety goggles, and in a fume hood, as it is harmful if swallowed and irritating to skin and eyes (H301, H315, H319) .

1. Isolate the spill area, wear full protective equipment including a self-contained breathing apparatus, and avoid generating dust when handling solid Dimethyl oxalate .
2. Sweep up Dimethyl oxalate CAS 553-90-2 using non-sparking tools into sealed, labeled containers for disposal; for small amounts, dampen with water and transfer to a suitable container, then wash contaminated surfaces with soap and water .
3. Prevent Dimethyl oxalate from entering drains or waterways, and dispose of waste according to environmental regulations, as it may cause long-lasting harmful effects to aquatic life .

1. Dimethyl oxalate is classified with GHS signal word "Danger" or "Warning" depending on the source, and is harmful if swallowed (oral LD50 rat: 500 mg/kg), causes skin and serious eye irritation (H315, H318, H319), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335) .
2. Dimethyl oxalate CAS 553-90-2 is combustible (flash point 75°C/167°F) with autoignition temperature of 480°C; vapors may form explosive mixtures with air, and thermal decomposition produces toxic fumes including carbon oxides .
3. Dimethyl oxalate is classified for transport by some regulations as a hazardous substance (UN 1759, Hazard Class 6.1(b)/PG III), and documented cases of oxalate nephropathy highlight the need for strict exposure control during handling .