Dimethyl Carbonate
- Esters
- CAS 616-38-6
- IUPAC: Dimethyl carbonate
Dimethyl Carbonate (CAS 616-38-6) appears in 2 of the 1,812 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of June 2026). It is classified as a VOC.
Mild eye and skin irritant at high concentrations. H302 (harmful if swallowed) and H332 (harmful if inhaled) at substance level, but at 1–5% in a multi-solvent aerosol formula, exposure is limited. Not a carcinogen, sensitizer, or reproductive toxicant. Lower toxicity profile than many conventional co-solvents.
Dimethyl carbonate (CAS 616-38-6) is a carbonate ester co-solvent used in coatings and polymer formulations as a greener alternative to chlorinated solvents. It evaporates quickly, assists film formation, and contributes to the overall solvent blend in aerosol rust converter formulations.
It hydrolyzes readily in water to methanol and carbon dioxide, giving it a favorable environmental profile compared to persistent solvents. Not listed under California Prop 65. Biodegradable under aerobic conditions.
Health & environment profile
- VOC
- yes
- Prop 65 listed
- no
- Asthmagen
- no
- EPA Safer Choice
- no
- Aquatic toxicity
- no
- Biodegradable
- yes
- Bioaccumulative
- no
- Persistent
- no
- Ozone depleting
- no
- Microplastic
- no
- PFAS
- no
- Env. score
- 4/5
Common questions about Dimethyl Carbonate
- What is Dimethyl Carbonate used for in car care?
- Low-toxicity co-solvent; provides fast evaporation and improved film formation in solvent-based coatings
- Is Dimethyl Carbonate a VOC?
- Yes. Dimethyl Carbonate is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
- Is Dimethyl Carbonate on California's Proposition 65 list?
- No. Dimethyl Carbonate is not on California's Proposition 65 list.
- Is Dimethyl Carbonate biodegradable?
- Yes. Dimethyl Carbonate has a confirmed biodegradable profile.
2 products contain this
Armor All Ultra Shine Headlight Restoration WipesProp 65headlight-restoration
Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray (10.25 oz)Prop 65rust-converter
Related
Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.