For chemical engineers, R&D scientists, and procurement specialists, a deep understanding of a chemical's properties is fundamental to successful product development and manufacturing. Acetyl Triethyl Citrate (ATEC), identified by CAS number 77-89-4, is a key plasticizer with a unique set of chemical and physical characteristics that make it invaluable across several industries. As a leading manufacturer and supplier of fine chemicals from China, we provide ATEC that meets rigorous purity and performance standards.

Firstly, let's examine the physical state and appearance of ATEC. It is consistently described as a colorless and transparent liquid. This visual characteristic is important for applications where the aesthetic of the final product is crucial, such as in clear cosmetic formulations or visually appealing packaging. The absence of color and transparency indicates a high degree of purity, which is further confirmed by its typical assay of 99% minimum.

Chemically, ATEC is an ester derived from citric acid and ethanol, further modified with an acetyl group. Its molecular formula is C14H22O8, with a molecular weight of approximately 318.32 g/mol. These fundamental chemical descriptors are vital for precise formulation and reaction calculations. The relatively low molecular weight contributes to its liquid state at room temperature and influences its compatibility and migration properties within polymer matrices.

Key physical properties that define ATEC's utility include its melting point and boiling point. ATEC has a low melting point, often cited around -42°C, ensuring it remains a liquid even in cooler environments, which is beneficial for handling and storage. Its boiling point is significantly higher, typically around 228-229°C at 100 mm Hg. This high boiling point indicates low volatility, a crucial attribute for a plasticizer as it minimizes loss from the polymer over time, ensuring long-term flexibility and performance.

Further important properties for formulators include its density and refractive index. The density of ATEC is approximately 1.136 g/mL at 25°C, indicating it is slightly denser than water. Its refractive index, n20/D, is around 1.439, which is a standard parameter for quality control and identification.

Solubility is another critical aspect. Acetyl Triethyl Citrate is generally miscible with common organic solvents such as acetone, ethanol, and ether. While its solubility in water is limited (around 0.72 gm/100 ml), this is often sufficient for many applications, and its compatibility with various polymers is excellent. This compatibility is key to its function as a plasticizer, allowing it to integrate smoothly into polymer chains and impart flexibility.

The acid value of ATEC is also a key specification, typically measured as ≤ 0.2 mg KOH/g. A low acid value is indicative of minimal free acidity, which is important for preventing degradation of polymers or reactions with other components in a formulation, particularly in sensitive applications like pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Similarly, the moisture content is kept very low, usually ≤ 0.25 wt%, to ensure product stability and prevent hydrolysis.

For buyers looking to purchase Acetyl Triethyl Citrate, understanding these properties is paramount. They dictate how ATEC will perform in specific applications, from enhancing the flexibility of PVC and cellulose derivatives to acting as a carrier in cosmetic formulations or a film-former in pharmaceutical coatings. The reliable manufacturing of ATEC by reputable suppliers ensures that these critical properties are consistently met, providing formulators with confidence in their raw material selection.

We invite you to contact us to learn more about the detailed specifications and reliable supply of our high-purity Acetyl Triethyl Citrate. As a leading manufacturer from China, we are committed to providing the chemical solutions your business needs.