Ethyl acetate is used as a solvent for varnishes, lacquers, dry cleaning, stains, fats and nitrocellulose. It is released during the production of artificial silk and leather, and during the preparation of photographic films and plates.Uses. Ethyl acetate is used primarily as (1) a coatings solvent for paints, lacquers, and varnishes; (2) an extraction solvent for various processes, including decaffeination of coffee and tea; (3) a process solvent in the pharmaceutical industry; and (4) a carrier solvent for printing inks, adhesives, and nail polish.