Diethyl Maleate is an organic compound belonging to the ester class, known by its molecular formula C8H12O4. Its structure consists of two ethyl groups bonded to the maleate backbone, which sets it apart from other maleic acid derivatives. In most industrial settings, DEM appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a faint, sweet odor. This chemical finds use in polymer synthesis, agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and as an intermediate in organic reactions due to its reliable reactivity and compatibility with a wide range of raw materials.
Taking a closer look at its structure, Diethyl Maleate features the maleic acid backbone with esterification at both carboxylic acid sites by ethyl alcohol groups. The molecule's layout supports its activity in addition reactions, especially in forming copolymers through reactions like Diels-Alder cycloadditions. Its molecular weight is 172.18 g/mol, which simplifies calculations for batch chemical processes and recipe formulation.
Physical properties directly influence how this material performs in a laboratory or industrial context. Typically, Diethyl Maleate shows a density in the range of 1.055-1.065 g/cm³ at 20°C, which aligns well for accurate volumetric dosing. Boiling point stands near 229°C under normal atmospheric pressure, so handling and storage processes often rely on established protocols for medium-boiling organics. DEM’s melting point sits below room temperature, resulting in a liquid state under most conditions; only at temperatures below -80°C does it solidify, so crystalline or flake forms rarely appear in practice. Its solubility in water is low, but it's miscible with many common organic solvents such as acetone, ethanol, and ether, aiding in its wide adoption in solution-based manufacturing.
Manufacturers usually offer Diethyl Maleate with purity levels above 99%, minimizing contaminants like diethyl fumarate or residual maleic acid. Technical and high-purity grades are available, each tailored to the demands of end-use applications in medicine, food packaging, or specialty chemicals. Liquids usually ship in drums or bulk containers, while request for smaller, laboratory quantities can be met with liter bottles. Its HS Code for global trade, 29171300, streamlines cross-border movement and regulatory compliance; this number identifies DEM distinctly from similar esters or diesters.
Nearly always supplied as a transparent liquid, Diethyl Maleate does not show up as a powder, pearl, or crystalline solid under regular ambient conditions. Any references to flakes or crystals stem from rare, low-temperature scenarios that rarely matter for end users. For industry and research alike, standard packaging comes in inert metal or plastic drums, sometimes in glass bottles for analytical uses, safeguarding product stability by preventing exposure to air and moisture.
Working with Diethyl Maleate requires basic chemical safety measures but doesn't reach the threat level of some more reactive raw materials. This compound can pose health risks through inhalation, ingestion, or prolonged skin contact, so handling calls for gloves, goggles, and well-ventilated areas. Exposure irritates skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, yet serious harm remains unlikely unless large quantities are involved or procedures break down. DEM is considered hazardous but not especially harmful compared to many industrial chemicals. Fire risk is minimal, but sources of ignition should be removed from the working space. Spill cleanup means using absorbent, non-reactive material and disposal in line with local hazardous waste guidelines. Emergency measures include washing affected areas with plenty of water or seeking immediate medical advice if ingested or inhaled in quantity.
Diethyl Maleate supports the synthesis of polymers and specialty compounds, acting as a softening agent in plastics, as a reactive diluent, or as a building block in organic synthesis. The material’s chemical backbone allows for integration into all sorts of copolymers, surfactants, and agricultural intermediates. In drug manufacturing, it gets used to prepare intermediates in producing certain active ingredients. Owing to its reliable physical properties and structural features, DEM remains a go-to choice for manufacturers looking for controlled reactivity and reproducible performance. Industrial operators value the balance between its manageable health hazards, stability during storage, and compatibility with diverse manufacturing processes.
Name: Diethyl Maleate
Molecular Formula: C8H12O4
Molecular Weight: 172.18 g/mol
HS Code: 29171300
Form: Liquid
Density: Approx. 1.06 g/cm³
Boiling Point: 229°C
Melting Point: -80°C (approx)
Solubility: Low in water, high in many organic solvents
Hazards: Irritant, follow chemical safety protocols
Main Uses: Polymer synthesis, pharmaceutical intermediates, additive in plastics, specialty surfactants, agrochemicals
In my experience, bringing Diethyl Maleate into a new process requires a look at the full spectrum of chemical safety and environmental impact, just like with any industrial raw material. Constant monitoring, good documentation, and up-to-date safety protocols drive both productivity and compliance. Reliable sourcing and regular analysis of purity protect downstream quality and support consistent results in lab or factory. Concrete understanding of its structure and reactivity opens the door to future innovations in material science and manufacturing. The balanced properties of Diethyl Maleate—liquid state at room temperature, strong chemical stability, and straightforward hazard profile—make it a staple in sectors that need both performance and manageable safety, so long as training and informed practices stay front and center.
