Properties of Dimethyl Ether (C2H6O)

Dimethyl ether (DME) is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C2H6O. It is a colorless, flammable gas at room temperature and is commonly used as a propellant in aerosol sprays, as well as a fuel in some transportation applications and heating systems.

The following table provides a comprehensive list of dimethyl ether properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units at normal temperature and pressure (NTP).

Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.

Table of Dimethyl Ether Properties
Physical Properties
Metric
Molar Mass46.069 g/mol
Density (0°C)2.115 kg/m3
Dynamic Viscosity (25°C)9.16 µPa·s
Thermal PropertiesMetric
Melting Point-141.5 °C
Boiling Point-24.8 °C
Thermal Conductivity (25°C)0.0178 W/m·K
Specific Heat Capacity (Cp)1425 J/kg·K
Critical ConstantsMetric
Critical Temperature (Tc)126.9 °C
Critical Pressure (Pc)5.37 MPa
Critical Density (ρc)242 kg/m3
Electrical PropertiesMetric
Relative Permittivity (εr)1.0062
Optical PropertiesMetric
Refractive Index (589 nm)1.000891
Hazardous DataMetric
Autoignition Temperature350 °C
Lower Flammability Limit3.4%
Upper Flammability Limit27%
NFPA Rating (Health)1
NFPA Rating (Fire)4
NFPA Rating (Reactivity)1

Unless stated otherwise, all values are taken at room temperature (approximately 20°C or 68°F) and 1 atm pressure. (1 atm = 101,325 Pa)

References: 1) Cardarelli, François. Materials Handbook: A Concise Desktop Reference. Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 2018. 2) CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, 97th Edition. United Kingdom: CRC Press, 2016-2017. 3) Yaws, Carl L. The Yaws Handbook of Physical Properties for Hydrocarbons and Chemicals. Netherlands: Elsevier Science, 2015. 4) Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials, 14th Edition. United States: National Fire Protection Association, 2010.