Overview
Triethyl orthoformate (CAS 122-51-0 ), also known as ethyl orthoformate and abbreviated as TEOF, is a reactive intermediate used across pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical manufacturing, and specialty chemical production.
It functions primarily as a protecting group reagent, alkylating agent, and condensation reagent in multi-step organic synthesis. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, TEOF is used to introduce orthoester functionality.
This occurs during the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients, particularly in the production of antimicrobials and antiviral compounds. Printing ink and coating formulators use it as a crosslinking agent.
It also serves as a moisture scavenger to improve film stability and shelf life in moisture-sensitive systems. In flavor and fragrance applications, it contributes to the synthesis of aroma compounds.
Controlled reactivity under mild conditions is commercially valuable for these applications. Personal care formulators incorporate it as a preservative booster and intermediate in the preparation of conditioning actives.
Triethyl orthoformate is supplied as a clear liquid in standard packaging ranging from drums to ISO containers for bulk procurement. It is available in technical and high-purity grades for industrial use.
Pharmaceutical-grade material meets specifications relevant to GMP manufacturing environments. Purity levels of 98% and above are standard for synthesis-grade supply across global chemical distribution networks.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -76 °C (lit.) |
| Boiling Point | 143 °C |
| Density | 0.8870 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C |
| Flash Point | 86 °F |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid; pungent odor. Highly flammable. Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol, ether; decomposes in water. |
| Color | Clear colorless |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 1.35 g/L |
| Vapor Pressure | 2.9 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.391(lit.) |
| Log P | 1.2 at 20℃ |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS02 GHS07 Hazard Statements H226 Flammable liquid and vapor H319 Causes serious eye irritation H332 Harmful if inhaled Precautionary Statements P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking. P233 Keep container tightly closed. P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment. P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment. P242 Use non-sparking tools. P243 Take action to prevent static discharges. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P317 Get emergency medical help. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P370+P378 Use … for extinction. P403+P235 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep cool. P303+P361+P353 IF ON SKIN (or hair): Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29159080 |
| UN Number | 2524 |
| ADR Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Storage Class | 3 - Flammable liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 122-51-0
- EC Number
- 204-550-4
- Mol. Weight
- 148.20
- HS Code
- 29159080
- Category
- Alcohols & Glycols