Description
Propyl lactate is a colorless to pale yellow liquid ester. It has a mild, pleasant odor and is known for its excellent solvency, biodegradability, and low toxicity. As a naturally derived solvent, it provides an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based chemicals in cleaning, coatings, and personal care applications.
This lactate ester dissolves a wide range of resins, oils, and greases while offering slow evaporation and high solvency power. It is commonly used in degreasers, ink removers, and industrial formulations. In cosmetics, it serves as a mild solvent and emollient. Its GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status makes it suitable for indirect food contact applications as well.
Chemical Properties
Chemical Name: Propyl Lactate
Synonyms: Propyl 2-hydroxypropanoate
Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₂O₃
Molecular Weight: 132.16 g/mol
CAS Number: 109-93-3
EC Number: 203-714-2
Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor: Mild, fruity
Density: ~1.02 g/cm³ at 25°C
Boiling Point: ~170°C
Solubility: Miscible with alcohols, esters, and hydrocarbons; limited solubility in water
Flash Point: ~82°C
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
VOC Content: Low to moderate, depending on formulation
Applications
Industrial Cleaners: Used in degreasing and metal cleaning
Paints and Coatings: Acts as a slow-evaporating, high-performance solvent
Printing Inks: Improves ink flow and pigment dispersion
Cosmetics and Personal Care: Solvent for active ingredients, emollient base
Adhesives: Improves bonding and application flow
Flavor & Fragrance: Used in trace amounts in formulations (indirect food contact)
Industries of Use
Cleaning and Degreasing:
Propyl lactate is highly effective in cleaning oily residues and industrial soils. Its slow evaporation rate makes it ideal for prolonged contact cleaning in automotive and machinery maintenance.
Paints, Coatings, and Inks:
The solvent provides excellent flow, leveling, and open time in water-based and solvent-borne systems. It reduces VOCs in eco-friendly coatings.
Personal Care and Cosmetics:
Manufacturers use it as a fragrance carrier and solvent in creams, lotions, and wipes due to its mildness and skin compatibility.
Adhesives and Sealants:
Propyl lactate enhances spreadability and drying performance in pressure-sensitive and water-based adhesives.
Storage Conditions
Store in a tightly sealed container made of stainless steel or HDPE.
Keep in a cool, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.
Avoid prolonged exposure to light and heat.
Protect from moisture and reactive chemicals.
Packaging
20 L HDPE drum
200 L HDPE barrel
All packaging conforms to GHS and international transport standards.
Safety & Handling
Avoid eye and skin contact.
Wear protective gloves, goggles, and clothing.
Do not inhale vapors.
Use only in well-ventilated areas.
Dispose of according to local environmental regulations.
