**tert-Butyl Acetate** (also known as **t-butyl acetate** or **TBAc**) is a chemical compound commonly used as a solvent in various industrial applications. It is an ester derived from acetic acid and tert-butanol. It is known for its relatively low toxicity compared to other solvents, making it a preferred choice in certain applications.
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**Key Details:**
1. **Chemical Properties:**
   - **Formula**: C₆H₁₂O₂
   - **IUPAC Name**: tert-Butyl acetate
   - **Molecular Weight**: 116.16 g/mol
   - **Appearance**: Clear, colorless liquid
   - **Odor**: Pleasant, fruity odor
   - **Boiling Point**: ~98 °C (208 °F)
   - **Density**: 0.866 g/cm³ at 20 °C
   - **Solubility**: Slightly soluble in water; miscible with most organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and acetone.
 
2. **Uses:**
   - **Solvent**: Widely used as a solvent in coatings, paints, inks, and adhesives due to its fast evaporation rate and low water solubility.
   - **Chemical Intermediate**: Used in the synthesis of other chemicals.
   - **Cleaning Agent**: Employed in industrial cleaning applications.
   - **Automotive Industry**: Used in automotive coatings and refinishing due to its favorable properties.
 
3. **Handling and Safety:**
   - **Flammability**: tert-Butyl acetate is flammable and should be kept away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources.
   - **Health Hazards**:
     - **Inhalation**: May cause dizziness, headaches, or respiratory irritation at high concentrations.
     - **Skin Contact**: Can cause mild irritation or dryness.
     - **Eye Contact**: May cause irritation.
     - **Ingestion**: Low toxicity if ingested, but medical attention is still recommended.
   - **Protective Measures**:
     - Use in well-ventilated areas or with local exhaust ventilation.
     - Wear gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing when handling.
     - Avoid prolonged or repeated exposure.
 
4. **Storage and Disposal:**
   - **Storage**: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and incompatible materials (e.g., strong oxidizers). Keep containers tightly closed.
   - **Disposal**: Dispose of in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. Do not pour into drains or waterways.
 
5. **Environmental Impact:**
   - tert-Butyl acetate is not considered highly toxic to the environment, but it should still be handled responsibly to prevent contamination of soil or water.
   - It has a low potential for bioaccumulation and is not classified as a persistent organic pollutant (POP).
 
6. **Regulatory Information:**
   - tert-Butyl acetate is generally recognized as safe for use in many applications, but it is still subject to workplace exposure limits (e.g., OSHA, ACGIH).
   - Always check local regulations for specific handling, storage, and disposal requirements.
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**Advantages of tert-Butyl Acetate:**
- Low toxicity compared to other solvents.
- Fast evaporation rate, making it ideal for coatings and paints.
- Pleasant odor, which is less offensive than many other solvents.
- Low water solubility, reducing the risk of water contamination.
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**Important Considerations:**
- **Ventilation**: Ensure adequate ventilation when using tert-butyl acetate to avoid inhalation of vapors.

- **Fire Safety**: Keep away from ignition sources and store in approved flammable liquid containers.

- **Compatibility**: Check compatibility with materials and other chemicals before use.
If you are working with tert-butyl acetate, always follow safety guidelines and consult the material safety data sheet (MSDS) for specific handling instructions.