Ethyl Lactate Overview:
Ethyl lactate is a clear, colorless liquid with a mild, fruity odor. It is an ester of lactic acid and ethanol, commonly used as a solvent in various industrial applications, including coatings, paints, and cleaning products.
Key Characteristics:
- Clear, colorless liquid
- Mild, fruity odor
- Soluble in water and organic solvents
Applications:
- Coatings and Paints: Ethyl lactate is utilized as a solvent in water-based coatings and paints, providing low volatility and excellent compatibility with resins and pigments.
- Cleaning Products: It is used as a solvent in industrial and household cleaning products, such as degreasers, strippers, and surface cleaners, due to its effective solvency and low toxicity.
- Printing Industry: Ethyl lactate is employed as a solvent in printing inks, particularly in flexographic and gravure printing, where it serves as a safer alternative to traditional solvents.
- Personal Care Products: It is used in personal care products, such as cosmetics and skin care formulations, as a solvent, emollient, and fragrance ingredient.
- Chemical Synthesis: Ethyl lactate serves as a precursor in the production of other esters and organic compounds, as well as in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
Hazards:
- Generally regarded as safe for most applications.
- Inhalation of vapors may cause mild irritation to the respiratory system.
- Contact with skin or eyes may cause mild irritation or dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
- Non-toxic and biodegradable, with low environmental impact compared to traditional solvents.
