Triethyl Citrate

Synonyms: Citric acid ethyl ester; Citroflex 2; Citrofol AI; E1505; ethyl citrate; Hydagen CAT; 1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-hydroxy-, triethyl ester (9CI); TEC; triethylis citras.

Description: Triethyl citrate is a clear, viscous, odorless, and practically colorless, hygroscopic liquid.

Chemical Name: 2-Hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid triethyl ester

Plasticizer; solvent.

• Triethyl citrate and the related esters acetyltriethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, and acetyltributyl citrate are used to plasticize polymers in formulated pharmaceutical coatings.

• The coating applications include capsules, tablets, beads, and granules for taste masking, immediate release, sustained-release, and enteric formulations.

• Triethyl citrate is also used as a direct food additive for flavoring, for solvency, and as a surface active agent.

Triethyl citrate is incompatible with strong alkalis and oxidizing materials.

Triethyl citrate is used in oral pharmaceutical formulations and as a direct food additive. It is generally regarded as a nontoxic and nonirritant material. However, ingestion of large quantities may be harmful.

Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material handled. Triethyl citrate is irritating to the eyes and may irritate the skin. It is irritating to the respiratory system as a mist or at elevated temperatures. Gloves, eye protection, and a respirator are recommended.

Acetyltributyl citrate; acetyltriethyl citrate; tributyl citrate.