Methyl acetoacetate (MAA, CAS 105-45-3), also known as methyl 3-oxobutanoate, is a colorless transparent liquid and a key beta-keto ester intermediate used in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, dyes, and fine chemicals.
Specifications
| Appearance | Colorless transparent liquid |
| Purity | 99.5% min |
| Acidity (as acetic acid) | 0.10% max |
| Water (mass fraction) | 0.10% max |
| CAS number | 105-45-3 |
| Molecular formula | C5H8O3 |
| Molecular weight | 116.12 g/mol |
Applications
- Pharmaceutical intermediate, for example in the synthesis of cephalosporin antibiotics and other active ingredients.
- Agrochemical intermediate for herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides.
- Intermediate for dyes, pigments, and flavor and fragrance compounds.
Storage and Packaging
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from heat and ignition sources, with the container tightly closed. Standard packaging: 200 kg drums, 1000 kg IBCs, or ISO tanks.
Chemical Structure
COC(=O)CC(C)=O
FAQ
What is methyl acetoacetate used for? It is mainly used as a pharmaceutical and agrochemical intermediate and as a building block for dyes and fine chemicals.
How should methyl acetoacetate be stored? Keep it cool, dry, and tightly sealed, away from heat and ignition sources.




