Triethyl Citrate (CAS 77-93-0): A Versatile Plasticizer for Low-Toxicity Applications
Discover the extensive uses of Triethyl Citrate, a safe and eco-friendly plasticizer for polymers, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food.
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Triethyl Citrate
Triethyl Citrate, identified by CAS number 77-93-0, is a bio-based ester derived from citric acid and ethanol. It is widely utilized as a non-toxic, biodegradable plasticizer, enhancing the flexibility and durability of various polymers such as PVC, cellulose derivatives, and natural resins. Its applications extend to pharmaceuticals for coating formulations, cosmetics as a solvent, fixative, and active ingredient in deodorants, and in the food industry as a foam stabilizer and flavoring agent (E1505).
- Leverage Triethyl Citrate as a versatile plasticizer for polymers, offering enhanced flexibility and durability in applications like films and coatings.
- Utilize its non-toxic and biodegradable properties, making it a safe and eco-friendly alternative to traditional plasticizers in various formulations.
- Incorporate Triethyl Citrate in cosmetic products for its dual role as a fragrance fixative and a key ingredient in natural deodorants, inhibiting odor-causing bacteria.
- Benefit from Triethyl Citrate's applications in pharmaceutical coatings, improving the performance of controlled-release tablets and oral dosage forms.
Key Advantages of Triethyl Citrate
Enhanced Polymer Flexibility
As a plasticizer, Triethyl Citrate significantly improves the flexibility and workability of polymers, reducing brittleness and enhancing processability. This makes it ideal for applications requiring improved material handling and performance.
Safety and Environmental Profile
Triethyl Citrate is lauded for its low toxicity and biodegradability, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable and safe chemical ingredients. Its GRAS status in food and approval for personal care products underscore its safety record.
Multifunctional Cosmetic Ingredient
In cosmetics, Triethyl Citrate serves multiple functions, acting as a fragrance fixative, a solvent, and an active ingredient in deodorants. Its ability to inhibit odor-causing bacteria makes it a popular choice for natural deodorant formulations.
Key Applications
Polymer Plasticization
Triethyl Citrate is an effective plasticizer for PVC, cellulose derivatives, and natural resins, enhancing their flexibility and durability in various industrial applications.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
Used as a solvent, fixative, and malodor active ingredient in perfumes, deodorants, and hair sprays, contributing to product longevity and efficacy.
Pharmaceutical Coatings
Serves as a plasticizer in pharmaceutical coatings for tablets and capsules, aiding in controlled drug release and improving film performance.
Food Industry
Functions as a food additive (E1505) for foam stabilization, especially in egg white products, and as a flavoring agent and emulsifier.