Abstract

This article gives relevant information related to carboxylic esters including nomenclature, physical and chemical properties, occurrence and preparation, analysis, health and safety issues, handling regulations, and commercial uses.

Chemical reactions of esters discussed are hydrolysis (both catalyzed and uncatalyzed), transesterification, ammonolysis, aminolysis, reduction (catalytic and stoichiometric), enolate reactions, Grignard and related reactions, acyloin condensation, pyrolysis, substitution, alkylation, and rearrangement.

Analytical methods for characterization of esters including spectroscopy are presented. Aspects of health, safety, and handling of esters are discussed in relation to their reactivity, flash point, autoignition temperature, toxicity data, and permissible exposure limits.

Uses of esters in areas such as solvents, plasticizers, resins, plastics, coatings, lubricants, perfumes, flavors, cosmetics, soap, surface active agents, medicinals, herbicides, pesticides, and photoresists are described.