Ethyl Methyl Carbonate (EMC) – High-Purity Solvent for Batteries
Ethyl Methyl Carbonate (EMC) is a clear, colorless, flammable liquid widely used as a high-performance solvent, especially in the production of lithium-ion battery electrolytes. With its excellent electrochemical stability, low viscosity, and good solvating ability, EMC is one of the most essential carbonate solvents in the battery industry. In addition to energy storage applications, it is also used in chemical synthesis, coatings, and specialty chemical formulations where purity, low freezing point, and thermal stability are required.
As the world increasingly depends on rechargeable battery technologies for electric vehicles, smartphones, power tools, and grid energy storage, demand for Ethyl Methyl Carbonate has grown rapidly. Its ability to blend seamlessly with other solvents like ethylene carbonate (EC), dimethyl carbonate (DMC), and diethyl carbonate (DEC) makes it indispensable in modern battery formulations.
Chemical information:
Chemical name: Ethyl Methyl Carbonate
Common abbreviation: EMC
CAS Number: 623-53-0
Molecular Formula: C4H8O3
Molecular Weight: 104.1 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Mild, sweet (ester-like)
Boiling Point: ~107°C
Flash Point: ~25°C
Density: ~0.975 g/cm³ at 20°C
Solubility: Miscible with most organic solvents; limited solubility in water
How Ethyl Methyl Carbonate is made:
EMC is synthesized via ester exchange or transesterification reactions. The most common industrial method involves reacting dimethyl carbonate (DMC) with ethanol in the presence of a catalyst. This reaction produces EMC and methanol as a byproduct.
Another method involves using ethyl chloroformate and methanol, but this route is less favored due to the use of halogenated intermediates. The catalytic transesterification process is preferred for industrial-scale production because it is safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly.
Raw materials used include:
Dimethyl carbonate (DMC)
Ethanol
Acid or base catalyst (e.g., sodium methoxide or potassium carbonate)
The product is purified through distillation to achieve high-purity EMC with minimal moisture and low impurity levels, which is crucial for battery-grade applications.
Industrial usage:
Ethyl Methyl Carbonate is mainly used in the following sectors:
Lithium-ion battery industry:
EMC is a key component in the electrolyte blend of lithium-ion batteries. It improves ionic conductivity, helps dissolve lithium salts (like LiPF6), and reduces viscosity of the solution. EMC also enhances the low-temperature performance of batteries and contributes to cycle stability. It is used in batteries for electric vehicles (EVs), mobile devices, laptops, energy storage systems (ESS), and power tools.
Chemical synthesis:
EMC is used as an intermediate or solvent in fine chemical synthesis due to its reactivity and mild ester properties. It is often selected for its low toxicity compared to chlorinated solvents.
Paints and coatings: In some specialty coating formulations, EMC is used as a co-solvent or carrier solvent, although this is not as common as battery applications.
Considering its superior solvency, cleaning and electronics , low surface tension, and controlled volatility, EMC is used in precision cleaning formulations, especially for electronics and optical components.
Countries of origin:
Ethyl Methyl Carbonate is produced in several countries with advanced chemical manufacturing infrastructure. The key countries of origin include:
China – The largest global producer of EMC, offering both industrial and battery-grade variants with competitive pricing.
South Korea – Known for producing high-purity EMC, especially for lithium battery applications.
Japan – Manufactures premium-grade EMC for electronics and automotive battery use.
India – Supplies industrial-grade EMC and is expanding its presence in battery-grade chemical exports.
Germany – EU-compliant production with a focus on purity and quality assurance.
United States – Produces EMC for domestic use in research, defense, and advanced energy sectors.
Abdul Sattar Sons works closely with verified manufacturers from these regions to ensure the best quality and timely availability for our global clients.
Packaging we offer:
To ensure safe transportation and storage, EMC is available in a range of standard and custom packaging options:
200-liter steel drums – ideal for industrial bulk users
1000-liter IBC totes – for large-scale applications and export clients
ISO tank containers – for bulk shipments and long-distance exports
Custom packaging – available upon request, including labeling, palletization, and specific purity requirements
All packaging complies with international transport and safety standards, including GHS labeling, UN codes, and moisture-barrier requirements, especially for battery-grade EMC.
Benefits of Ethyl Methyl Carbonate:
High purity and excellent chemical stability
Low viscosity for improved fluidity in battery electrolytes
Blends easily with other carbonates like EC, DMC, and DEC
Enhances conductivity and battery performance
Supports safe operation over a wide temperature range
Low toxicity compared to many traditional solvents
Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
Cost-effective and scalable for mass battery production
Abdul Sattar Sons – Your trusted partner in global EMC trade
Abdul Sattar Sons is a leading name in the export, trade, and brokerage of specialty chemicals and solvents. We specialize in sourcing high-quality Ethyl Methyl Carbonate (EMC) for industrial clients worldwide. Whether you need battery-grade EMC or industrial-grade for chemical synthesis, we provide reliable sourcing, technical documentation, and regulatory support.
We serve clients across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas, offering flexible delivery schedules, competitive pricing, and packaging customization. Our reputation is built on trust, quality control, and decades of experience in global chemical logistics.
As a chemical trading house, we ensure compliance with REACH, GHS, and other international regulatory frameworks, and work directly with manufacturers in China, Korea, India, and Germany to bring the best EMC solutions to your doorstep.
For consistent supply, global reach, and technical support, choose Abdul Sattar Sons as your trusted source for Ethyl Methyl Carbonate.
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