Sodium methoxide, also known as sodium methylate, methanolic sodium methoxide, or sodium methanolate, is a strong alkoxide base widely used as a reactive chemical intermediate in biodiesel transesterification processes, corresponding to CAS 124-41-4. It functions by catalyzing transesterification and other base-driven reactions through methoxide ion activity, enabling efficient conversion in chemical synthesis and fuel-related production systems. For industrial users, this product is supplied with competitive factory pricing, customized specifications, complete documentation including MSDS, TDS, COA, and reliable bulk supply; technical inquiries may be directed to 📧info@industrochem.com.
Sodium Methoxide (CAS 124-41-4)
- CAS: 124-41-4
- Synonyms: Sodium methoxide, Sodium methylate, Methanolic sodium methoxide, Sodium methanolate
- Einecs: 219-145-8
- Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₄₁N₃
- Grade: Industrial Grade
- Package: 25 kg drum / 200 kg plastic drum / 1000 kg IBC tank (customizable)
Product Description
Product Overview
Sodium Methoxide is an inorganic strong base and an important alkoxide compound, commonly used as a catalyst, reagent, and chemical intermediate. It is available in both solid and solution (usually in methanol) forms.
Basic Information
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Sodium Methoxide |
| CAS Number | 124-41-4 |
| Synonyms | Methanol, sodium salt; Sodium methylate |
| Molecular Formula | CH₃ONa |
| Molecular Weight | 54.02 g/mol |
| EINECS Number | 204-699-5 |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder or colorless liquid (in solution) |
| Purity | ≥ 99% (solid); 25%–30% (solution in methanol) |
| Melting Point | 127–128°C |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes |
| Density | ~0.97 g/cm³ (solution); ~1.1 g/cm³ (solid) |
| Solubility | Soluble in methanol, ethanol; reacts with water |
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place; protect from moisture |
| Packaging | 25 kg bag (solid), 200 L drum or IBC tank (solution) |
| Grade | Industrial Grade / Pharmaceutical Intermediate Grade |
Key Properties
- Strong base and nucleophile
- Highly reactive with water and air (moisture-sensitive)
- Effective transesterification catalyst
- Can be customized in solid or liquid form
Applications
Sodium Methoxide is widely used in:
- Biodiesel Production
- Acts as a transesterification catalyst to convert vegetable oils or animal fats into methyl esters (biodiesel)
- Pharmaceutical Industry
- Used as a reagent or intermediate in the synthesis of APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients)
- Agrochemicals
- Involved in the production of herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides
- Organic Synthesis
- Used for deprotonation, condensation, and alkylation reactions
- Polymer & Fine Chemicals Manufacturing
Safety & Handling
- Reacts violently with water and moisture, releasing methanol and heat
- Handle under inert gas or dry atmosphere
- Use proper PPE: gloves, goggles, and protective clothing
- Refer to the MSDS before handling
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
Are sodium methoxide and sodium methylate the same substance?
A: Yes. Sodium methoxide and sodium methylate refer to the same chemical substance and share identical composition under the same CAS identification. -
Q:
Is sodium methoxide suitable for biodiesel transesterification processes?
A: It is commonly used as a base catalyst in biodiesel transesterification where efficient ester conversion is required under controlled industrial conditions.
Documents and Product Support
For product review and sourcing evaluation, supporting documents can be coordinated according to the product type, inquiry stage, and order requirements.
- COA for batch-based quality reference
- TDS for key physical and chemical information
- SDS / MSDS for handling, storage, and safety reference
- Packing information for sample, trial, and bulk orders
- Technical communication based on application and specification requirements
Information to Confirm Before Quotation
Clear sourcing information helps reduce specification mismatch and allows a more accurate quotation before sample or bulk order discussion.
- Product name and CAS number
- Application or intended end use
- Required purity, grade, or specification
- Sample quantity, trial order, or bulk demand
- Preferred packing form or net weight
- Destination country or port
- Required documents or compliance expectations
Packaging, Storage, and Handling Notes
Packaging form, storage conditions, shelf life, and shipment arrangements should be confirmed according to the product characteristics, package size, and destination requirements.
Before order confirmation, buyers are advised to review the corresponding product documents and confirm whether any special storage, labeling, or handling requirements apply.
Sample, Bulk Order and Repeat Supply Support
Support can be arranged for sample discussion, bulk supply planning, packaging confirmation, and routine sourcing communication based on the actual product and order requirements.
For repeat-use formulations or long-term procurement plans, buyers may discuss specification consistency, packaging preferences, delivery expectations, and document coordination in advance.




