Trimethyl Citrate (TMC) is the trimethyl ester of citric acid with CAS Number 1587-20-8. It is a white crystalline solid or powder, providing good solubility in organic solvents and moderate water solubility.
As a citrate ester, TMC is valued for its low toxicity, biodegradability, and multifunctional properties, making it a preferred choice over traditional phthalate plasticizers in many eco-conscious formulations.

 

Technical Specifications

ITEMS SPECIFICATIONS
Appearance White crystals
Content ≥99.0%
Residual Acid ≤0.5%
Melting Point 75-78℃

 

Package & Storage

  • Net weight 25KG bag or 40KG cardboard drum.
  • Keep in a cool, dry, sealed container away from strong oxidizers.

 

Key Benefits of Trimethyl Citrate (TMC)

Effective Plasticizer:
Enhances flexibility and durability in polymers and resins while maintaining good thermal stability.

Solvent and Stabilizer:
Acts as a green solvent in coatings, inks, and formulations, improving viscosity control and adhesion.

Flavor and Acidity Regulator Potential:
Used in food and beverage applications as a flavor enhancer or acidity modulator.

Bio-based and Sustainable:
Derived from renewable citric acid sources, offering a safer, phthalate-free alternative for sensitive applications.

Low Volatility and Compatibility:
Provides excellent compatibility with various resins, cellulose derivatives, and natural polymers.

 

Applications and Uses of Trimethyl Citrate (TMC)

Trimethyl Citrate finds broad application across multiple sectors due to its versatile ester chemistry:

Plastics and Polymer Industry

  • Bio-based plasticizer for flexible films, packaging materials, and coatings.
  • Improves processability and mechanical properties in PVC alternatives and biodegradable polymers.

Food and Beverage

  • Functional additive for flavor enhancement, acidity regulation, and stabilization in select food products under GMP guidelines.

Cosmetics and Personal Care

  • Solvent, stabilizer, and emollient in formulations, contributing to product texture and fragrance retention.

Pharmaceuticals and Synthesis

  • Intermediate in the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients and citrate conjugates with antibacterial properties.
  • Used in specialty coatings and excipients.

Industrial and Chemical Manufacturing

  • Solvent in inks, coatings, and cleaning formulations.
  • Reagent in organic synthesis and daily chemical additives.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Trimethyl Citrate (TMC) used for?
A: TMC is primarily used as a plasticizer in polymers, a solvent in coatings and inks, an intermediate in organic synthesis, and a functional additive in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications.

Q: Is Trimethyl Citrate (TMC) a plasticizer?
A: Yes, TMC functions as a bio-based plasticizer, providing flexibility to resins and polymers as a safer alternative to certain traditional plasticizers.

Q: How does Trimethyl Citrate (TMC) compare to Triethyl Citrate (TEC)?
A: TMC has shorter methyl ester chains compared to TEC, resulting in differences in volatility, melting point, and specific solvency profiles. Both are citrate esters used in similar applications, but TMC is often preferred where a solid form or particular reactivity is needed.

Q: Is Trimethyl Citrate (TMC) safe for food contact?
A: When used in compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices and relevant regulatory approvals, citrate esters like TMC can serve functional roles in food-related applications.

Q: How should Trimethyl Citrate (TMC) be stored?
A: Store in airtight containers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and incompatible materials to maintain product quality and prevent moisture absorption.

 

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