Understanding the fundamental chemistry of industrial intermediates is crucial for chemists, formulators, and procurement specialists. Diethyl Maleate (CAS 141-05-9) is a prime example of such an essential organic compound, valued for its specific chemical properties and synthesis pathways. As a leading chemical manufacturer, we provide detailed insights into Diethyl Maleate, its characteristics, and how it's produced, to help our B2B clients make informed decisions.

Chemical Identity and Properties: Diethyl Maleate is an ester of maleic acid with the chemical formula C8H12O4. It is characterized as a colorless liquid at room temperature, with a distinct fruity odor. Its IUPAC name is diethyl (Z)-but-2-enedioate. Key physical properties include a relatively low melting point and a boiling point around 218 °C at atmospheric pressure. It is soluble in many organic solvents like ethanol and ether but has limited solubility in water. The presence of the carbon-carbon double bond, activated by the adjacent ester groups, makes Diethyl Maleate a highly reactive molecule, particularly susceptible to addition reactions.

Synthesis Methods: The primary method for synthesizing Diethyl Maleate involves the esterification of maleic acid or, more commonly, maleic anhydride with ethanol. This reaction is typically catalyzed by an acid, such as sulfuric acid. The process involves heating the reactants under controlled conditions to promote the formation of the ester bonds. The reaction can be represented as:

Maleic Anhydride + 2 Ethanol --(Acid Catalyst)--> Diethyl Maleate + Water

Another common approach involves the direct esterification of maleic acid with ethanol in the presence of an acid catalyst. Process optimization is key to achieving high yields and purity, which involves controlling parameters like temperature, catalyst concentration, and reaction time. Modern manufacturing processes often employ continuous flow reactors or specific distillation techniques to efficiently separate the product and achieve the desired quality for industrial applications.

Reactivity and Applications: The chemical structure of Diethyl Maleate dictates its reactivity. It is a potent dienophile, readily participating in Diels-Alder reactions, which are fundamental for constructing complex ring systems. Furthermore, its activated double bond makes it an excellent Michael acceptor, enabling it to react with nucleophiles in Michael addition reactions. This reactivity is leveraged in various industrial applications, including:

  • Polymer Synthesis: As a crucial component in polyaspartic coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers (CASE).
  • Agrochemicals: As an intermediate in the synthesis of pesticides like Malathion.
  • Organic Synthesis: A versatile building block for creating diverse organic molecules in research and development.

As a reputable manufacturer, we ensure that our Diethyl Maleate is produced with meticulous attention to process control and quality assurance, guaranteeing a product that meets the stringent requirements of various industries. For B2B customers looking to buy Diethyl Maleate, understanding these chemical fundamentals is key to appreciating its value and selecting the right supplier. We offer high-purity Diethyl Maleate and welcome inquiries for bulk purchases and custom quotations.