murphyDimethyl Carbonate
AKA: 616-38-6, Carbonic acid, Dimethyl ester, Methyl carbonate ((MeO)2CO), AI3-14705
Synthetic
Solvent
Not Clean
Dimethyl carbonate is a carbonate ester that is carbonic acid in which both hydrogens are replaced by methyl groups. A flammable, colourless liquid (m.p. 2-4C, b.p. 90C) with a characterstic ester-like odour, it is used as a 'green' methylating agent and as a solvent. It has a role as a reagent and a solvent.
Solubility Miscible with alcohol and ether
Formula
C3H6O3
Mol. Weight
90.08
CAS #
616-38-6
Form
Powder
State
Dimethyl carbonate appears as a clear, colorless liquid with a pleasant odor. Denser than water and slightly soluble in water. Vapors are heavier than air. Used to make other chemicals and as a specia
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Propellant
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Antimicrobial
Provides scent
Propels product from container
Dissolves other ingredients
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
3 studies / 3 not sensitizing (CIR 723)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
3 studies / 1 irritating / 2 not irritating (CIR 723)
Eye Irritant in Testing
3 studies / 3 irritating / reactions mild to severe (CIR 723)
Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2016
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR