N-Butyl lactate
N-Butyl lactate is an organic compound that belongs to the family of esters derived from lactic acid. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a mild odor, known for its utility in various industrial and manufacturing processes. The chemical formula for N-Butyl lactate is C7H14O3, indicating it comprises seven carbon atoms, fourteen hydrogen atoms, and three oxygen atoms.
Properties[edit | edit source]
N-Butyl lactate exhibits several physical and chemical properties that make it valuable in different applications. It has a boiling point of approximately 219°C and a melting point of -76°C. Its solubility in water and organic solvents like ethanol and diethyl ether is notable, making it versatile for use in various formulations.
Production[edit | edit source]
The production of N-Butyl lactate typically involves the esterification of lactic acid with n-butanol in the presence of an acid catalyst. This reaction is an example of Fischer-Speier esterification, a common method for synthesizing esters. The process requires careful control of reaction conditions, including temperature and the molar ratio of reactants, to achieve high yields and purity of the product.
Applications[edit | edit source]
N-Butyl lactate finds applications across several industries due to its solvent properties and biodegradability. It is used as a solvent in the production of paints, coatings, and inks, where it helps in improving the product's performance and environmental profile. In the pharmaceutical industry, it serves as a solvent and an intermediate in the synthesis of various drugs. Additionally, its application in the cosmetics industry includes its use in formulations where it acts as a humectant and a solvent for active ingredients.
Environmental and Safety Considerations[edit | edit source]
One of the advantages of N-Butyl lactate is its biodegradability, which makes it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based solvents. It is generally considered to have low toxicity, but like all chemicals, it requires proper handling and storage to minimize any potential health and safety risks. Safety data sheets (SDS) provide detailed information on handling, storage, and disposal practices to ensure safe use.
Regulatory Status[edit | edit source]
The regulatory status of N-Butyl lactate can vary by country and region, depending on its applications and concentrations in products. In many cases, it is regulated under chemical inventory laws, such as the European Union's Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation. Manufacturers and users must comply with relevant regulations to ensure the safe production, use, and disposal of N-Butyl lactate.
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD