Dimethyl Carbonate
molecular structure · PubChem
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
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
Traditional Use
A synthetic organic carbonate ester developed as a solvent and preservative booster in cosmetic formulations in the late 20th century.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Dermal absorption: 99.9%. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 723).
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR