Other Names:
Sodium Methylate, Sodium Methanolate, Methyl Sodium, Sodium Methoxide Solution, Sodium Methoxide Powder, CH₃ONa
Specification Summary
- Purity: 98–99.9% (solid), 25–30% (solution in methanol)
- Form: White crystalline powder or colorless to slightly yellow liquid (in methanol solution)
- CAS No.: 124-41-4
- Molecular Formula: CH₃ONa
- Molecular Weight: 54.02 g/mol
Product Description
Sodium Methoxide is a highly reactive, white crystalline powder or a clear to slightly yellow solution in methanol. It is a strong, caustic base and a powerful nucleophile, decomposing rapidly in contact with water to form sodium hydroxide and methanol. Sodium methoxide is soluble in methanol and ethanol, but not in hydrocarbons. It is highly corrosive, air- and moisture-sensitive, and should be stored under inert conditions. Its strong alkalinity (pH ~13) and catalytic efficiency make it indispensable in organic synthesis, pharmaceuticals, and biodiesel production.
Sodium Methoxide Specification Table
| Property | Specification / Value |
| Chemical Name | Sodium Methoxide |
| Other Names | Sodium Methylate, Methyl Sodium |
| CAS Number | 124-41-4 |
| Molecular Formula | CH₃ONa |
| Molecular Weight | 54.02 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder / clear liquid in methanol |
| Purity (Solid) | 98–99.9% |
| Purity (Solution) | 25–30% w/w in methanol |
| Density (solid, 25°C) | 0.945–0.97 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 127°C |
| Boiling Point | >300°C (decomposes) |
| Flash Point (solution) | 33°C |
| pH (1% solution) | ~13 |
| Solubility in Water | Reacts violently, decomposes |
| Solubility in Methanol/Ethanol | Complete |
| Free Alkali (as NaOH) | ≤1.0% |
| Sodium Carbonate (Na₂CO₃) | ≤0.3% |
| Moisture Content | ≤0.5% |
Downloadable TDS
A complete Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is available for download, containing detailed chemical, physical, and safety data, as well as handling, storage, and regulatory compliance information.
Application Sectors and Industries of Sodium Methoxide
Pharmaceuticals
Sodium methoxide is a critical reagent in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), vitamins (such as A1 and B1), antibiotics, and a variety of specialty drugs. Its role in forming ester and ether bonds is essential for developing new medications and intermediates.
Biodiesel Production
Widely used as a transesterification catalyst, sodium methoxide converts vegetable oils and animal fats into biodiesel (fatty acid methyl esters, FAMEs). Its efficiency and cost-effectiveness make it the preferred catalyst for sustainable fuel production.
Organic Synthesis
Sodium methoxide serves as a strong base and nucleophile in organic chemistry, facilitating aldol condensations, dehydrohalogenations, and the synthesis of methyl ethers. It is indispensable in the manufacture of agrochemicals, dyes, and specialty chemicals.
Agrochemicals
Used in the synthesis of pesticides, herbicides, and plant growth regulators, sodium methoxide enables the production of high-value crop protection products. Its catalytic activity supports efficient and scalable agrochemical manufacturing.
Polymer and Plastics Industry
Acts as a catalyst in the polymerization processes for producing plastics such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), which is used in optical lenses, screens, and safety equipment.
Analytical Chemistry
Employed as a strong base in titrations and as a reagent in various analytical procedures, sodium methoxide is essential for research laboratories and quality control in chemical manufacturing.
Personal Care and Cosmetics
Used in the synthesis of fragrance and flavor esters, sodium methoxide acts as a catalyst in esterification reactions, contributing to the formulation of perfumes, flavors, and personal care products.
Petrochemicals and Fuels
Facilitates the alkylation process for producing high-octane gasoline and diesel additives, improving fuel quality and performance in the petrochemical sector.
Food Industry
Utilized as a catalyst in the production of food-grade esters and flavors, sodium methoxide ensures high purity and efficiency in food additive manufacturing.
Dyes and Colorants
Essential in the synthesis of organic dyes and pigments, sodium methoxide enables the production of high-performance colorants for textiles, inks, and plastics.
Packaging Types
- 25 kg HDPE Drums:
Moisture-resistant, airtight drums for safe storage and handling of solid sodium methoxide in moderate quantities. - 50 kg Steel Drums:
UN-certified, corrosion-resistant drums for secure bulk transport and storage in industrial settings. - 1,000 kg Jumbo Bags (FIBCs):
Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers with anti-static liners for large-scale manufacturing and export operations. - Small Bottles (100 mL, 500 mL):
DualSeal or septum-capped bottles for laboratory and research applications, ensuring product integrity and safe dispensing. - ISO Tanks and Bulk Tankers:
Used for liquid sodium methoxide solutions, providing safe, large-volume delivery to biodiesel plants and chemical manufacturers. - Custom Packaging:
Available for high-purity, pharmaceutical, or research-grade requirements, including vacuum-sealed and inert gas-flushed containers.
For detailed product specifications, safety guidance, and regulatory compliance, please download the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) or contact our technical support team
