Dimethyl Ether

Your Professional Difluoroethane Manufacturer in China

Jiangsu July Chemical Co.,Ltd is located in Jiangyin city, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province. It owns two industrial-grade gas of Dimethyl Ether& LPG stations, our mainly products include Dimethyl Ether, LPG, Methanol, R152a, R134a, Ethylene glycol and so on.

Professional Dangerous Goods Shipping

We have more than 12 years experience in handling with the dangerous goods, so we can help you to save money and time. NEVER try to ship such items as normal or regular cargos, because the goods will be checked and may be detained by your customs both in port of loading and port of discharge.

Good Quality Control

We cooperates with quality global suppliers, and we have more than 1,000 cooperative suppliers at present. We has strict criteria for supplier selection,selecting suppliers with reliable quality and stable production to cooperate to ensure the quality of goods and deliver on time.

Rich Experience

We have a complete set of 19 dangerous chemical transport vehicles, also being exclusive sales agent of domestic chemical plan with rich experience in chemical international trade.

Great Service

Whenever you have a question or need support, our team is ready to assist. Yes, even after hours with a 24/7/365 team dedicated to emergency service.

Brief Introduction to Dimethyl Ether

Dimethyl ether (DME) is a synthetically produced alternative to diesel for use in specially designed compression ignition diesel engines. Under normal atmospheric conditions, DME is a colorless gas. It is used extensively in the chemical industry and as an aerosol propellant. Dimethyl ether requires about 75 pounds per square inch (psi) of pressure to be in liquid form. Because of this, DME's handling requirements are similar to those of propane-both must be kept in pressurized storage tanks at an ambient temperature.

Product Specification

CAS Number	115-10-6
Abbreviations	DME
Beilstein Reference	1730743
ECHA InfoCard	100.003.696
EC Number	204-065-8
RTECS number	PM4780000
Chemical formula	C2H6O
Molar mass	46.069 g·mol−1
Appearance	Colorless gas
Odor	Ethereal
Density	2.1146 kg m−3 (gas, 0 °C, 1013 mbar) 0.735 g/mL (liquid, −25 °C)
Melting point	−141 °C; −222 °F; 132 K
Boiling point	−24 °C; −11 °F; 249 K
Solubility in water	71 g/L (at 20 °C (68 °F))
Vapor pressure	592.8 kPa
Preferred IUPAC name	Methoxymethane
Other Names	Dimethyl ether[1] R-E170 Demeon Dimethyl oxide Dymel A Methyl ether Methyl oxide Mether Wood ether

Comparison of Fuel Properties

Utilization

Substitute for diesel fuel; transportation fuel; power generation fuel; domestic gas.

Relevant Fuel Regulations

EN590 (diesel fuel).

Main Feedstocks

Forest products, agricultural by-products, organic waste, energy crops, black liquor.

Scale of Production

Demonstration scale.

Production Process

DME is primarily produced by converting natural gas, organic waste or biomass to synthesis gas (syngas). The syngas is then converted into DME via a two-step synthesis, first to methanol in the presence of catalyst (usually copper-based), and then by subsequent methanol dehydration in the presence of a different catalyst (for example, silica-alumina) into DME.

The following reactions occur:

2H2+ CO ⇄CH3OH

2CH 3OH ⇄CH3OCH3 + H2O

CO+H 2O ⇄CO2+H2

Alternatively, DME can be produced through direct synthesis using a dual-catalyst system which permits both methanol synthesis and dehydration in the same process unit, with no intermediate methanol separation, a procedure that, by eliminating the intermediate methanol synthesis stage, the licensors claim promises efficiency advantages and cost benefits.Both the one-step and two-step processes are commercially available.DME can also be converted itself into olefins and synthetic hydrocarbons.

Chemical Composition and Characteristics

With the ether bond connecting two methyl groups (-CH3) to an oxygen atom (-O-), DME has the chemical formula CH3OCH3. Several distinctive traits distinguish it

Gaseous at Ambient Conditions

DME is a gas at normal pressure and ambient temperature, making it appropriate for various gaseous applications.

Non-toxic and Colorless

When burnt, DME does not release any hazardous pollutants and is non-toxic. Its adaptability is additionally increased because it has no color or smell.

High Energy Density

The high energy density of DME makes it a desirable fuel option for various applications.

Application of Dimethyl Ether

Alternative Fuel

DME has drawn interest as a cleaner substitute for LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) and diesel. It may be utilized in compression-ignition diesel engines to reduce particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions.

Aerosol Propellant

DME is used in aerosol goods, including deodorants, hairsprays, and insect repellents as fuel.

Chemical Feedstock

DME is a feedstock utilized to synthesize several chemicals, such as acetic acid, dimethyl sulfate, and others.

Refrigeration

It may be utilized as a refrigerant in the cooling sector, especially in certain heat pump applications.

Advantages of Dimethyl Ether

Purity

DME is produced by a process of catalytic dehydration of methanol that gives water as a by-product. Thanks to this process, a minimum purity of 99.9%, a maximum methanol content of 1 ppm and 100 ppm of pure water are guaranteed, as well as a stable pressure. This results in the security that we will always know with what type of gas purity we are going to work, unlike other propellants, mixtures of different gases and origins that do not guarantee the previous parameter.

Miscibility With Water

DME is miscible in water. By using from 6% to 34% weight of DME it is possible to form a single liquid phase with water: stable, homogeneous, and transparent. For other amounts of DME, phase separation is formed, although just adding 6% by weight of ethyl alcohol prevents such formation. The water formulation is positive for several reasons. Water is cheap, non-flammable, it is not a VOC (volatile organic component), and it is a great solvent. On the other hand, it is colourless, odourless, and ecologically accepted. The addition of certain amounts of water reduces the flammability of certain products (and even in some cases cancels it), increases the solubility of certain active principles and reduces the total cost of the formulation and in formulations where the use of perfumes is required, facilitates its development.

Solvent Power

Its great solvent power is remarkable and very practical in certain formulations. A theoretical value of this parameter is its solubility value. These values are calculated considering, among various factors, the heat of vaporization and the molar volume. Propane and butane have solubility values between 5.8 and 6.6. The DME presents a value of 7.3. A more recognized value to illustrate solvent power is the Kauri Butanol number. This value is obtained by using a 20% standard solution of a Kauri resin and titrating it with a solvent or a propellant. The number of millilitres required to achieve the cloud point at 20°C is defined as the Kauri Butanol number. Propane and butane have values between 15 and 20. The DME is markedly higher, around 91. A practical way to demonstrate this solvent power of DME is its influence on the “cloud point”. DME lowers the “cloud point” of aerosol formulations, which is particularly important in hair spray formulations where most of the most common polymers are compatible with DME. DME increases the solvent power of formulations; This makes it an excellent component for hairspray, spray paints and some technical products such as spray polyurethane foams, adhesives.

Versatility

DME can be used in multiple ways:
●As the sole propellant.
●Mixed with the most common hydrocarbons, minimizing their major disadvantages (solvent power, miscibility with water).
●Mixed with co2, being the best solvent for this product.
●Mixed with the new generation of hfcs such as 134a, 152a, 365 fa, 227.

Fundamental in Reducing Vocs in Formulations

To reduce the emission of VOCs (volatile organic components) of current formulations, it is necessary to replace some of its components with others that are not considered VOCs.
The ideal substitute in most cases is WATER, as it is colourless, odourless, non-flammable, non-toxic, non-VOC, compatible with the skin, inexpensive, and a good solvent.

Hazards

Air & Water Reactions

Highly flammable. Upon standing and exposure to air (oxygen) tendency to form explosive peroxides. When ethers containing peroxides are heated (distilled) they can detonate.

Fire Hazard

Behavior in Fire: Containers may explode. Vapors are heavier than air and may travel long distance to a source of ignition and flash back.

Health Hazard

Inhalation produces some anesthesia (but less than that of ethyl ether), blurring of vision, headache, intoxication, loss of consciousness. Liquid or concentrated vapor irritates eyes. Contact of liquid with skin may cause frostbite.

Reactivity Profile

DIMETHYL ETHER is a colorless, highly flammable gas (b. p. -24°C), slightly toxic. Very dangerous fire and explosion hazard when exposed to flame, sparks, heat or strong oxidizers. Violent reaction with aluminum hydride, lithium aluminum hydride. Upon standing and exposure to air (oxygen) tendency to form explosive peroxides. When ethers containing peroxides are heated (distilled) they can detonate.

Precautionary Statement

General

●If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand.
●Keep out of reach of children.
●Read carefully and follow all instructions.

Prevention

●Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
●Wear protective gloves/ protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
●Avoid breathing gas.
●Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing.

Response

●Leaking gas fire: Do not extinguish, unless leak can be stopped safely.
●If exposed or concerned, get medical advice.
●IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
●IF ON SKIN: Thaw frosted parts with lukewarm water. Do not rub affected area. Get immediate medical advice/attention.
●Eliminate all ignition sources if safe to do so.

Storage

●Protect from sunlight. Store in a well-ventilated place.
●Store locked up.
●Ether needs to be stored in a flammable storage cabinet when not in use.
●Ether can form peroxides over time when exposed to oxygen and sunlight. Labs should follow the Peroxidizable Materials guideline found here.
●Ether should be stored in a cool place, preferably in an explosion-proof refrigerator. Under no circumstances can ether be stored in a refrigerator that is not explosion-proof.

Disposal

●Dispose of contents/ container to an approved facility in.
●Accordance with local, regional, national and international regulations.

Main Hazard

●This substance is an extremely flammable gas.

Other Hazards

●An asphyxiant at high concentrations-oxygen depletion can be fatal.

Handling

●Prior to working with Dimethyl Ether you should be trained on its proper handling and storage.

●Dimethyl Ether is not compatible with OZONE; OXIDIZING AGENTS (such as PERCHLORATES, PEROXIDES, PERMANGANATES, CHLORATES, NITRATES, CHLORINE, BROMINE and FLUORINE); STRONG ACIDS (such as HYDROCHLORIC, SULFURIC and NITRIC); and HALOGENS.

●Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area, and prevent AIR from entering container.

●Sources of ignition, such as smoking and open flames, are prohibited where Dimethyl Ether is used, handled, or stored.

●Metal containers involving the transfer of Dimethyl Ether should be grounded and bonded.

●Use only non-sparking tools and equipment, especially when opening and closing containers of Dimethyl Ether.

●Peroxide formation may occur in containers that have been opened and remain in storage for more than six months. Peroxides can be detonated by friction, impact or heating.

Ultimate FAQ Guide to Dimethyl Ether

Q: What are the benefits of using DME?

A: DME is a non-toxic and non-carcinogenic product. DME is also environmentally friendly. During a fuel spill, DME evaporates into the air, unlike diesel, because it is stored at pressure. Also, DME is not a GreenHouse Gas (GHG) whereas natural gas (CH4) is said to be between 22 and 80x worse than CO2 as a GHG. Though DME is mostly discussed as a fuel for transportation, it is safe for the home as well. It is used for domestic cooking and heating and in fact, is the propellant for asthma inhalers.

Q: What are the disadvantages of dimethyl ether?

A: Skin contact with liquid Dimethyl Ether can cause severe frostbite. Dimethyl Ether is a HIGHLY FLAMMABLE LIQUID or GAS and a DANGEROUS FIRE HAZARD.

Q: What is the common use of dimethyl ether?

A: Dimethyl ether (DME) is a synthetically produced alternative to diesel for use in specially designed compression ignition diesel engines. Under normal atmospheric conditions, DME is a colorless gas. It is used extensively in the chemical industry and as an aerosol propellant.

Q: Is dimethyl ether good for the environment?

A: DME is a non-toxic and non-carcinogenic product. DME is also environmentally friendly.

Q: How is dimethyl ether made?

A: DME can be produced from many sources like biomass, waste products, agricultural products, natural gas and coal.The most popular way of producing DME is by methanol dehydration. For decades, DME has been manufactured in places like China, Japan, Egypt, Korea and Brazil. With China being the number one producer of DME. DME is currently not commercially available in most parts of the United States.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of ether?

A: Ether is sweet smelling and mildly pungent; while it can be used for inhalational induction, an ether induction is very slow and risks laryngospasm. Ether is still used as an anesthetic in some developing countries because of its low cost and high therapeutic index with minimal cardiac and respiratory depression.

Q: Is dimethyl ether a good solvent?

A: However, if mixed with water, DME acts as hydrogen bond acceptor and forms weak hydrogen bonds between its oxygen atoms and the hydrogen atoms of water. This characteristic allows the processing of wet feedstocks and thus makes DME an appropriate solvent for a broad range of applications.

Q: Is dimethyl ether explosive?

A: ICSC 0454-DIMETHYL ETHER. Extremely flammable. Gas/air mixtures are explosive. NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking.

Q: Is dimethyl ether stronger than ethanol?

A: Because hydrogen bonds are typically much stronger attractions than ordinary dipole moments, a group of ethanol molecules is much harder to separate from each other than a group of dimethyl ether molecules. The ethanol has a much higher boiling point.

Q: Can you drink dimethyl ether?

A: Ether is harmful if swallowed, may cause drowsiness and/or dizziness, and may cause eye irritation. It is critical that users limit their exposure to ether fumes. Ether needs to be stored in a flammable storage cabinet when not in use. Ether can form peroxides over time when exposed to oxygen and sunlight.

Q: What is the main advantage of producing DME from syngas?

A: DME is produced from syngas following either an indirect route or direct route. The main advantage of the direct synthesis route to DME is surpassing the equilibrium constrain of the methanol synthesis step by the in situ removal of methanol, resulting in a higher CO/CO2 conversion.

Q: Is dimethyl ether soluble in water?

A: Dimethyl ether, or more formally, methoxymethane, is a colorless gas at room temperature, having a boiling point of -42.1ºC. It is fairly water soluble, with 328 grams of the gas dissolving in 100 mL of water. It is used as an aerosol propellant, as a refrigerant, and as a blowing agent for the production of some foams. It can also be used as a fuel in diesel engines.

Q: Why is dimethyl ether volatile?

A: But in the case of ether, no such bonding is present, and molecules are held together by weak intermolecular forces. Hence, due to the presence of weak intermolecular forces ethers are volatile in nature.

Q: What are the benefits of ether?

A: Vapours of certain ethers are used as insecticides, miticides, and fumigants for soil. Ethers are also important in medicine and pharmacology, especially for use as anesthetics. For example, ethyl ether (CH3CH2―O―CH2CH3), simply known as ether, was first used as a surgical anesthetic in 1842.

Q: Is dimethyl ether volatile?

A: Dimethyl ether (DME), also known as methylether, is an extremely flammable volatile organic compound with chemical structure CH3OCH3. This ether is a by-product of methanol production and is a colorless gas or liquid with ether like odor.

Q: Why is diethyl ether a good solvent?

A: Because diethyl ether has a dipole moment, polar substances readily dissolve in it. Polar compounds that can serve as hydrogen bond donors dissolve in diethyl ether because they can form hydrogen bonds to the nonbonding electron pairs of the ether oxygen atoms. Ethers are aprotic. Thus, basic substances, such as Grignard reagents, can be prepared in ether and tetrahydrofuran. These ethers solvate the magnesium ion, which is coordinated to the lone pair electrons of the ether. The nonbonding electron pairs of ethers can stabilize electron-deficient species such as BF3 and borane, BH3. For example, the borane-THF complex is used in the hydroboration of alkenes.

Q: Why is diethyl ether bad?

A: Diethyl Ether can affect you when breathed in.

Contact can irritate the skin and eyes.

Breathing Diethyl Ether can irritate the nose and throat.

Breathing Diethyl Ether can cause drowsiness, excitement, dizziness, vomiting, irregular breathing, and increased saliva.

Q: Is dimethyl ether an alcohol?

A: The key difference between ethanol and dimethyl ether is that the ethanol is a colorless liquid at room temperature which has high volatility whereas dimethyl ether is a colorless gas at room temperature. Further ethanol (common name is ethyl alcohol) is an alcohol while dimethyl ether is an ether.

Q: What is the difference between methanol and dimethyl ether?

A: The calorific value of DME is higher than methanol but lower than conventional fuels. Although the energy density is higher, relative to methanol, transport logistics are higher cost due to the requirement to store and transport under pressure.

Q: What is the main advantage of DME?

A: A major advantage of the DME is that each drop has a smooth and uncontaminated surface free from any adsorbed analyte or impurity. The self-renewing electrode does not need to be cleaned or polished like a solid electrode. This advantage comes at the cost of a working electrode with a constantly changing surface area.

As one of the leading dimethyl ether manufacturers and suppliers in China, we warmly welcome you to buy high-grade dimethyl ether made in China here from our factory. All chemical products are with high quality and competitive price.