Dimethyl adipate is the organic compound with the formula (CH2CH2CO2CH3)2. It is a colorless oily liquid. Although the main commercial interest in adipates is related to the production of nylons, this diester is used as a plasticizer, a solvent for paint stripping and resins, and a pigment dispersant.
Preparation Dimethyl adipate is prepared by esterification of adipic acid with methanol. Less conventional routes include the hydroesterification of butadiene and the carbonylation of 1,4-dimethoxy-2-butene.
It reacts with concentrated ammonia to give the diamide (CH2CH2C(O)NH2)2.
Toxicity Esters of adipic acid exhibit low acute toxicities in animal models. The of this dimethyl ester is estimated at 1800 mg/kg (rat, i.p.).
Uses Dimethyl adipic acid is used in cosmetics as an emollients and for skin conditioning. It is also used in agrochemicals and dyes, as well as a precursor for the production of pharmaceutical active ingredients and as a component of dibasic esters.
References