Acetyl Tributyl Citrate makes its name as a versatile plasticizer, shaped by molecular formula C20H34O8. Listed by HS Code 29181980, it steps into several roles because it not only softens plastic but also mimics certain flexibility and stability found in natural materials. Seeing this chemical move from a liquid to a faintly viscous crystal at colder temperatures, manufacturers notice its adaptability to processing needs. Derived from citric acid, its structure shows three butyl ester chains, each contributing to its balance between flexibility, resistance to volatility, and environmental responsibility. Wherever one finds a demand for phthalate-free plasticizer, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate offers a consistently safer answer, especially compared to more hazardous alternatives.
A clear, colorless, or pale yellow liquid, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate flows at room temperature with a density near 1.05 g/cm³ at 20°C. Some batches form fine flakes, powder, or even firm pearls when temperatures drop, pointing to its ability to adapt to transport and storage situations. This feature matters to those handling large volumes, limiting losses and ensuring easier measurement by volume or weight. A low vapor pressure means fewer health worries in occupational settings, though as with any chemical, care stands front and center. Odor stays faint and mild, much less intrusive than the harsh scent of older phthalate-based compounds. Water solubility remains low, but it readily mixes with common plastic resins, further deepening its use as a plasticizer. The molecular structure adds an acetyl group to the base citrate, reinforcing its thermal and chemical stability—qualities needed in long-lasting consumer goods and industrial parts.
In terms of physical property, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate shows detailed performance across a range of temperatures. The boiling point hits roughly 370°C, allowing it to withstand demanding processing temperatures. Flash point sits above 200°C, making it safer to handle in most manufacturing environments without strict explosion risk. It’s non-corrosive and resists hydrolysis, even under humid conditions. Its plasticizing effect can match the softness of traditional DEHP, giving industries an easier transition to safer ingredients. This plasticizer shines brightest in PVC applications, wiring, medical tubing, and children’s toys. Meeting REACH and FDA regulations gives added proof of its profile as a lower-risk plasticizer, fitting right into food contact and skin-safe items where toxicity becomes an everyday worry.
Producers commonly source raw materials like citric acid (usually fermented from corn or sugar) and n-butanol to drive the esterification process that creates Acetyl Tributyl Citrate. The process involves mixing and heating with careful control, ensuring high purity and consistent quality. After neutralization and purification, the resulting liquid meets demand in either bulk liquid, crystal, or pearl formats. Tracking HS Code 29181980 helps global movement and tariff classification, smoothing supply chain movement from chemical plants to end-users worldwide. With growing pressure for non-phthalate solutions, investment in better synthesis routes has led to cleaner, more sustainable production methods for both small and large batches.
For safety, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate edges ahead of traditional plasticizers. Its acute toxicity ranks very low; oral LD50 in rats reaches over 30,000 mg/kg. That level puts it in a category of relatively harmless chemicals under normal safe handling routines, but no one should let their guard down. It can irritate eyes and skin or cause stomach upset if swallowed, which isn’t unusual for any organic liquid. Spills become much easier to control thanks to low volatility; using gloves and splash goggles covers most risks. Though not listed as a hazardous material under most transport regulations, storage conditions should still keep it away from open flame, oxidizers, and strong acids. Waste can usually go through regular chemical disposal streams without special permits. Employees benefit from clear training on chemical hygiene and first aid measures, just as with any compound used in industrial work.
Acetyl Tributyl Citrate’s eco-profile deserves special attention. Because it’s biodegradable, the compound breaks down much faster than phthalate-based plasticizers, offering a lower footprint in water and soil. Modern wastewater treatment plants easily remove leftovers, reducing environmental accumulation. This trait holds weight as regulations tighten worldwide, and consumer scrutiny grows. Markets for bio-based, non-toxic, and food-safe plasticizers have surged, and many see Acetyl Tributyl Citrate as one answer to long-term sustainability targets, especially in flexible packaging, food wrap, and soft medical devices. Factoring in both safety and environmental impact becomes crucial for producers and buyers alike.
Even as demand for Acetyl Tributyl Citrate rises, industries grapple with price swings, batch consistency, and availability. Newer plants now build flexibility into their raw material sourcing, keeping closer ties with agricultural suppliers to stabilize costs. Tight quality control measures ensure molecular weight, density, and purity all stay within a narrow range, which manufacturers need for reliable product performance. Research teams continue to test alternative catalysts, better purification methods, and green chemistry approaches for further gains. Switching to Acetyl Tributyl Citrate solves ongoing worries around employee safety, consumer health, and environmental pollutant loads—especially when moving away from legacy options thought harmful to developing children and wildlife. As both consumer expectations and regulations grow stricter, this material brings noticeable improvements to safety without forcing a trade-off in performance or durability.
