- ▸ Comonomer: Copolymerizes with styrene and vinyl chloride to modify resin properties.
- ▸ Reactive intermediate: Michael acceptor for addition chemistry and downstream synthesis.
- ▸ Polymer modifier: Chemical modifier in resin and specialty-chemical production.
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
Diethyl maleate (DEM, CAS 141-05-9) is the diethyl ester of maleic acid, an unsaturated difunctional ester used as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis. Its activated carbon-carbon double bond makes it a Michael acceptor and a comonomer for copolymers with styrene and vinyl chloride. It also serves as a chemical modifier in polymer and specialty-chemical manufacture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diethyl maleate used for?
Diethyl maleate (DEM, CAS 141-05-9) is an unsaturated difunctional ester used as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis. Its activated double bond makes it a Michael acceptor for addition chemistry and a comonomer that copolymerizes with styrene and vinyl chloride to modify resin properties. It also serves as a chemical modifier in polymer and specialty-chemical manufacture.
What is the difference between diethyl maleate and dimethyl maleate?
Both are diesters of maleic acid; diethyl maleate uses two ethyl groups (C8H12O4) while dimethyl maleate uses two methyl groups, giving it a lower molecular weight and different boiling point. Both act as Michael acceptors and reactive comonomers, with the ester choice affecting solubility and reactivity in a given system.
Is diethyl maleate the same as diethyl fumarate?
No. They are geometric isomers sharing formula C8H12O4 — diethyl maleate is the cis isomer of the double bond and diethyl fumarate is the trans isomer. The geometry affects their reactivity and physical properties in synthesis and copolymerization.
What is the CAS number for diethyl maleate?
Diethyl maleate's CAS number is 141-05-9, formula C8H12O4, classified under HS 2917.19. RawSource supplies it in drums and totes with a Certificate of Analysis and SDS per shipment.
What is the cost of bulk diethyl maleate?
Bulk DEM pricing depends on volume, packaging, and freight to your location. RawSource quotes against current supply; submit a bulk quote request with your target volume and ship-to for firm pricing.