Triacetin is a versatile chemical compound with the molecular formula C9H14O6 and CAS Number 102-76-1. As a clear, colorless, and odorless liquid, Triacetin serves as an effective plasticizer, solvent, and humectant across various industries. Produced through the esterification of glycerol with acetic acid, it offers excellent compatibility with a wide range of materials, making it an essential ingredient in formulations requiring stability and performance.
Technical Specifications
| ITEMS | SPECIFICATIONS | |
| Technical Grade | Food Grade | |
| Appearance | Colorless Oily Liquid | Colorless Oily Liquid |
| Content, % | ≥99.0 | ≥99.0 |
| Color (Pt-Co), Hazen | ≤15 | ≤20 |
| Efractive Index (20°C) | 1.430 – 1.435 | 1.429-1.431 |
| Water Content, % | ≤0.05 | ≤0.1 |
| Acidity (HAc), % | ≤0.005 | ≤0.02 |
| Heavy Metal (Pb), mg/kg | ≤5 | ≤1 |
| Arsenic (As), mg/kg | ≤1 | ≤1 |
Packaging and Storage
- Net weight 240kg Iron drum or 1150kg IBC Tank
- Store in a well-closed, coo and dry place.
Benefits of Using Triacetin
Versatility: Compatible with polymers like cellulose acetate, nitrocellulose, and polyvinyl acetate, enabling diverse formulations.
Safety Profile: Generally Recognized as Safe for food and pharmaceutical use, with low acute toxicity.
Environmental Friendliness: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions, reducing ecological impact compared to petroleum-based alternatives.
Applications of Triacetin
Triacetin is widely used due to its multifunctional properties. Here are some primary applications:
Pharmaceuticals:
Acts as a plasticizer in tablet coatings, capsules, and excipients. It improves film flexibility and drug release profiles in controlled-release formulations.
Food Industry:
Approved as a food additive for use as a humectant, solvent, and carrier in flavors, essences, and baked goods. It helps maintain moisture and extends shelf life.
Cosmetics and Personal Care:
Functions as a solvent and emollient in nail polishes, perfumes, and skin care products, providing a smooth texture without greasiness.
Tobacco:
Used as a plasticizer in cigarette filters to enhance filtration efficiency and reduce tar delivery.
Industrial Uses:
Serves as a solvent in inks, adhesives, and coatings. A fixative in perfumes and a component in propellants for its low volatility.
Other uses:
In foundry core binders, photographic films, and as a biofuel additive to improve combustion properties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Triacetin used for?
Triacetin is primarily used as a plasticizer, solvent, and humectant in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, tobacco, and industrial applications. It enhances flexibility in coatings, maintains moisture in foods, and acts as a carrier for flavors and fragrances.
Is Triacetin safe for food and pharmaceutical use?
Yes, Triacetin is FDA-approved as GRAS and meets USP/EP standards. It has low toxicity and is widely used in edible products and medications without adverse effects when used as directed.
What is the difference between Triacetin and other acetates?
Triacetin is the tri-ester of glycerol and acetic acid, offering higher solvency and plasticizing efficiency compared to mono- or di-acetates. It provides better compatibility with hydrophilic materials.
How should Triacetin be stored?
Store in a cool, dry place in sealed containers to avoid hydrolysis. Ideal temperature range is 15-30°C. Avoid exposure to moisture, heat, or incompatible substances like strong oxidizers.
Is Triacetin environmentally friendly?
Triacetin is biodegradable and derived from renewable sources like glycerol. It has a low environmental persistence and is considered a greener alternative to many synthetic solvents.
Where can I buy Triacetin?
Contact us via email [email protected] for the price and bulk orders.
