Butyl lactate shows up in industry as an organic compound that often appears as a clear, colorless liquid with a fruity odor. Chemically, it belongs to the ester group, formed by the reaction of lactic acid and n-butanol. People who have worked in chemical plants or labs see it used as a solvent or component in cleaners, coatings, and inks. It carries the molecular formula C7H14O3 and a molecular weight that measures about 146.18 g/mol. HS Code 2918.16 applies to this product, making it a straightforward item for shipping and customs processes. Many regulations require a chemical to be clearly labeled for safety, especially as butyl lactate’s properties make it useful yet also carry hazards.
Butyl lactate’s chemical structure stands out with a central lactic acid core linked to a butyl group through esterification. Physically, it presents as a low-viscosity liquid at room temperature, though it can form small amounts of solid particles if cooled or improperly stored. Density typically lands between 0.98 and 1.0 g/cm³, which means it flows slower than water but does not feel heavy. This property makes it practical for mixing in many industrial and laboratory processes. Its boiling point hits around 186°C, while the flashpoint usually measures between 68 and 80°C—data that means something to folks who store or process large drums for manufacturing.
Butyl lactate often ships in liquid form but can crystallize into a solid or powder under certain handling conditions. Most packagings keep it fluid because that suits most uses in cleaning, degreasing, and solvent blending. High-purity butyl lactate may show up as clear pearls or crystals, especially in labs or specialty markets. Some techs in the field use it as a carrier material, especially in paints and coatings where its slow evaporation proves handy. Specialty cleaning formulas for electronics or fine instruments sometimes list butyl lactate as a main component because it dissolves greasy residues without harsh fumes. Application by liter, gallon, or bulk container always requires handling with proper chemical gloves and goggles. Exposure to air over long periods can lead to hydrolysis, breaking it back down into lactic acid and butanol, which changes both its makeup and usefulness.
Anyone who spends time with industrial chemicals knows the importance of safety. Butyl lactate comes with health and safety considerations: inhalation of vapors, skin contact, or accidental ingestion can irritate the body. Repeated exposure can cause headaches or dizziness, as well as skin redness or swelling. Workers moving drums or blending batches keep an eye on air quality, because the vapors can build up in closed rooms. It’s not classified as an extremely hazardous chemical, but it does require respect. Storage in cool, ventilated spaces makes spills or evaporation less of a worry. Spilled liquid feels slick, and cleanup means using absorbent pads and ventilating the area. Companies train staff in the safe movement and handling of raw materials like butyl lactate, keeping safety sheets and first-aid kits at hand.
Many factories and labs choose butyl lactate for its unique solvent abilities, which come from its structure and moderate polarity. As a raw material, it blends well with water and oils, pulling double duty in complex manufacturing processes. Its balance of mildness and strength lets it remove stubborn residues while leaving surfaces looking clean. People designing eco-friendlier cleaning products sometimes choose butyl lactate, since it breaks down more easily in the environment than some older chemicals. Paint makers use it as a flow agent, while folks in ink manufacturing rely on it to help pigments spread evenly. Regulations set by groups like OSHA and the EPA require manufacturers to list hazards and ensure container integrity, so users know what they’re handling.
C7H14O3 defines its chemical fingerprint, showing seven carbons, fourteen hydrogens, and three oxygens linked in a way that bestows strong solvency but mild odor. Part of its wider use boils down to that ester group—the lactic backbone keeps it biodegradable, and the long butyl tail slows evaporation. Specifications might mention purity above 98% for critical use, along with color, odor, and density checks before blending. These checks limit batch failures and ensure the chemical matches buyers’ needs. Traceability follows every drum, especially for hazardous shipments, with clear hazard pictograms and emergency advice attached as part of legal and ethical best practice.
Shippers and producers always think about spills, exposure, and impact. Butyl lactate does not persist long in the open environment because bacteria can digest lactic acid esters. That advantage tracks with increasing regulation that pressures companies to cut waste and lower risk. Drums and bottles must close tightly, with labels listing both chemical and hazard codes, along with quick advice on first aid for exposure. Waste processors treat butyl lactate by combustion or controlled incineration, which keep emissions down. In places with tighter environmental rules, recycling solvents from chemical baths can mean lower demand for new ingredients. If someone spills a liter at work, teams isolate the area and inform supervisors right away—a clear sign that good habits matter more than luck.
Years spent around paint shops, cleaning crews, and factories show how a simple compound like butyl lactate fills many gaps. The right training turns what could be a risky material into a safe part of daily work. Technical data matter as much as real-world experience—people choosing chemicals want safety, compliance, and reliability. The right lab test or field report ensures no one faces unexpected problems. Over time, more companies look for sustainable inputs and better end-of-life handling, and butyl lactate’s profile fits with these changing demands. Safety standards keep getting tighter; every container label, safety guide, and supplier declaration connects experience with trust, keeping workplaces and communities safer.
