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Send EmailTributyl Citrate, Butyl Citrate, TBC, 77-94-1
TRIBUTYL CITRATE (TBC)
Citric Acid Tributyl Ester - Tri-n-butyl Citrate
CAS: 77-94-1
| Product Name | Tributyl Citrate (TBC) |
| CAS Number | 77-94-1 |
| EC Number | 201-071-2 |
| Chemical Class | Citric Acid Ester (Plasticizer) |
| Synonyms | Tributyl Citrate, TBC, Citric Acid Tributyl Ester, Tri-n-butyl Citrate, Tributyl 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate, Butyl Citrate, Citroflex 4 |
ITEM 1: PRODUCT IDENTITY AND NOMENCLATURE
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| IUPAC Name | Tributyl 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate |
| Chemical Formula | C₁₈H₃₂O₇ |
| Molecular Weight | 360.4 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 77-94-1 |
| EC Number | 201-071-2 |
| Synonyms | Tributyl Citrate, TBC, Citric Acid Tributyl Ester, Tri-n-butyl Citrate, Butyl Citrate, Citroflex 4, Morflex TBC, Tributyl 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate |
| HS Code | 2918.15.00.00.00 |
| REACH Status | Registered and compliant |
Description: Tributyl Citrate (TBC) is a triester of citric acid and butanol. It is a high-efficiency, phthalate-free plasticizer derived from natural citric acid (obtained from corn fermentation). It is approved for use in food packaging, medical products, children's toys, pharmaceuticals, flavors and fragrances, cosmetics, and other industries across Europe and other regions. TBC imparts excellent cold resistance, water resistance, and mold resistance to finished products. It exhibits excellent transparency and flexibility at low temperatures, low volatility, low extractability in various environments, and good thermal stability without color change upon heating.
ITEM 2: CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND MOLECULAR PROPERTIES
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Family | Citric Acid Ester (Phthalate-free Plasticizer) |
| Structure | Triester of citric acid with three butyl groups |
| Functional Groups | Three ester groups (-COO-), one hydroxyl (-OH) |
| Molecular Structure | HO-C(COOC₄H₉)(CH₂COOC₄H₉)₂ |
| SMILES | CCCCOC(=O)CC(O)(CC(=O)OCCCC)C(=O)OCCCC |
| InChI Key | ZFQCYQNBOHEZTG-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| Bio-based Content | Derived from natural citric acid |
| Source | Citric acid from corn fermentation |
Structural Formula:
text
O
||
C₄H₉-O-C-CH₂
|
HO-C-CH₂-C-O-C₄H₉
| ||
O O
||
C₄H₉-O-C
Description: Tributyl Citrate is a triester of citric acid with three butyl groups. The molecule contains a central hydroxyl group (-OH) and three ester groups (-COO-). This structure provides excellent compatibility with various polymers, high plasticizing efficiency, and good thermal stability. The presence of the hydroxyl group also imparts improved water resistance compared to acetylated citrate esters.
ITEM 3: PHYSICAL APPEARANCE AND FORM
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Slightly yellowish, transparent liquid | Visual Inspection |
| Physical Form | Liquid (oily) | Visual Inspection |
| Color | Slightly yellowish to colorless | Visual Inspection |
| Odor | Fruity, mild | Organoleptic |
| Clarity | Clear, free from sediment | Visual Inspection |
Description: Tributyl Citrate is a slightly yellowish to colorless, clear, transparent liquid with a mild fruity odor. It is supplied as a free-flowing liquid with high purity (>97.0%). The product contains no visible sediment or turbidity.
ITEM 4: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Specification | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density (20°C) | 1.040 – 1.050 g/cm³ | 1.043 g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Density (25°C) | 1.035 – 1.045 g/cm³ | 1.043 g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Refractive Index (20°C) | 1.443 – 1.445 | 1.444 | ASTM D1218 |
| Viscosity (25°C) | ~30 cP | 30 cP | – |
| Surface Tension | ~32 dyn/cm | – | – |
| Water Solubility | 0.02% (w/w) | – | – |
| Flash Point | 300 °C | 300 °C | ASTM D93 |
Description: Tributyl Citrate is a slightly viscous liquid with a density of approximately 1.043 g/cm³. Its refractive index is around 1.444. The product has very low water solubility (0.02% w/w), contributing to its excellent water resistance in applications. Its high flash point (300°C) indicates very low flammability and excellent thermal stability.
ITEM 5: THERMAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Specification / Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Melting Point | -20 °C | DSC |
| Freezing Point | -20 °C | DSC |
| Boiling Point | 169 – 171 °C (at 0.5 mmHg) | – |
| Boiling Point (760 mmHg) | ~350 °C (decomposes) | – |
| Flash Point | 300 °C | ASTM D93 |
| Auto-ignition Temperature | ~315 °C | – |
| Vapor Pressure (20°C) | < 0.01 mmHg | – |
| Thermal Stability | Good; no color change upon heating | – |
Description: Tributyl Citrate has a low melting point of -20°C and remains liquid over a wide temperature range. Its boiling point is 169-171°C at reduced pressure (0.5 mmHg), and it decomposes at higher temperatures under atmospheric pressure. The flash point is 300°C, indicating very low flammability. Its excellent thermal stability ensures no color change upon heating during processing.
ITEM 6: SOLUBILITY AND MISCIBILITY
| Solvent / Medium | Solubility / Miscibility |
|---|---|
| Water | Very slightly soluble (0.02% w/w) |
| Ethanol (Alcohol) | Completely miscible |
| Acetone | Completely miscible |
| Ether | Completely miscible |
| Benzene | Completely miscible |
| Toluene | Completely miscible |
| Chloroform | Completely miscible |
| Methanol | Completely miscible |
| Mineral Oils | Completely miscible |
| Vegetable Oils | Completely miscible |
| PVC | High compatibility |
| Cellulose Acetate | Good compatibility |
| Polystyrene | Good compatibility |
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Excellent compatibility |
Description: Tributyl Citrate is very slightly soluble in water (0.02% w/w) but completely miscible with most organic solvents including ethanol, acetone, ether, benzene, toluene, chloroform, methanol, mineral oils, and vegetable oils. It shows high compatibility with PVC, cellulose acetate, polystyrene, and other polymers, making it an effective plasticizer for a wide range of applications.
ITEM 7: PURITY AND ANALYTICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Parameter | Specification | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity (GC) | ≥ 97.0% | 98.0% | GC |
| Purity | ≥ 98.0% (premium grade) | 99.0% | GC |
| Acid Value (mg KOH/g) | ≤ 0.20 | 0.10 | Titration |
| Water Content (Karl Fischer) | ≤ 0.20% | 0.05% | Karl Fischer |
| Color (APHA) | ≤ 50 | 20 | ASTM D1209 |
| Density (20°C) | 1.040 – 1.050 g/cm³ | 1.043 | ASTM D4052 |
| Refractive Index (20°C) | 1.443 – 1.445 | 1.444 | ASTM D1218 |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm | <5 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 2 ppm | <1 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Appearance | Clear liquid | Clear liquid | Visual |
| Odor | Fruity | Fruity | Organoleptic |
Description: Tributyl Citrate is supplied in high purity (≥97.0%). Premium grades may exceed 98.0% purity. Low acid value and water content indicate high quality and ester stability. Heavy metal content is within strict limits for food contact and medical applications.
ITEM 8: PLASTICIZER PERFORMANCE PROPERTIES
| Property | Performance Description |
|---|---|
| Plasticizing Efficiency | High; provides excellent flexibility and elongation |
| Cold Resistance | Excellent; maintains flexibility at low temperatures |
| Water Resistance | Excellent; low water extractability |
| Mold Resistance | Good; resists fungal growth |
| Heat Stability | Excellent; no color change upon heating |
| Light Stability | Good; minimal yellowing under UV exposure |
| Volatility | Low; minimal weight loss during processing |
| Extractability | Low in various media (water, oil, solvents) |
| Transparency | Excellent; clear, non-yellowing |
| Migration | Low; good permanence |
| Compatibility | Excellent with PVC, cellulose acetate, PS |
| Toxicity | Low; phthalate-free, FDA approved |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable |
Comparison with Other Plasticizers:
| Property | TBC | ATBC | DOP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plasticizing Efficiency | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Cold Resistance | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Water Resistance | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Heat Stability | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Volatility | Low | Very Low | Medium |
| Phthalate-free | Yes | Yes | No |
| FDA Approval | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| Biodegradability | Good | Good | Poor |
Description: Tributyl Citrate offers an excellent balance of plasticizing properties. It provides high plasticizing efficiency, excellent cold resistance, water resistance, and mold resistance. Its low volatility and low extractability ensure long-term performance in various environments. The product exhibits excellent transparency and flexibility, especially at low temperatures, making it suitable for applications requiring clarity and cold flexibility.
ITEM 9: PLASTIC AND POLYMER APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| PVC Production | Primary plasticizer for flexible PVC |
| Cellulose Acetate | Plasticizer and compatibilizer |
| Cellulose Nitrate | Plasticizer |
| Polystyrene (PS) | Plasticizer, processing aid |
| Polyvinyl Acetate (PVAc) | Plasticizer |
| Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) | Plasticizer, processing aid |
| Polyamide (PA) | Plasticizer (limited) |
| Polyurethane | Plasticizer (limited) |
| Biodegradable Polymers | Plasticizer for PLA, PBAT, and other biopolymers |
| Resins | Plasticizer, softener |
| Coatings | Film former, plasticizer |
| Adhesives | Plasticizer, flexibility enhancer |
| Printing Inks | Plasticizer, solvent |
Usage Levels:
| Application | Typical Concentration |
|---|---|
| PVC (Flexible) | 20 – 40% |
| Cellulose Acetate | 15 – 30% |
| Polystyrene | 5 – 15% |
| Polymethyl Methacrylate | 5 – 15% |
| Biodegradable Polymers | 10 – 25% |
Description: In the plastics industry, Tributyl Citrate is used as a primary plasticizer for PVC, cellulose acetate, cellulose nitrate, and other polymers. It imparts flexibility, durability, and processability to polymer formulations. Its excellent compatibility with biodegradable polymers makes it suitable for PLA, PBAT, and other bio-based materials. The product provides excellent transparency, cold resistance, and low migration.
ITEM 10: FOOD PACKAGING APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Food Packaging Films | Plasticizer for PVC films |
| Cling Films | Plasticizer, flexibility |
| Food Containers | Plasticizer for packaging materials |
| Bottle Caps | Plasticizer for PVC and PE closures |
| Seals | Plasticizer for sealing materials |
| Food Wraps | Plasticizer for transparent wraps |
| Blister Packaging | Plasticizer for PVC blister packs |
| Lidding Films | Plasticizer, flexibility |
Regulatory Approvals:
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| EU | Approved for food contact (Regulation (EU) No 10/2011) |
| USA | FDA 21 CFR approved |
| Japan | Approved |
| China | Approved |
Description: Tributyl Citrate is approved for food packaging applications in Europe, the USA, Japan, China, and many other countries. It is used as a plasticizer in PVC films, cling films, food containers, bottle caps, seals, and other food contact materials. Its low migration and low extractability ensure the safety of food packaging applications.
ITEM 11: MEDICAL AND PHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Medical Devices | Plasticizer for medical PVC |
| Medical Tubing | Plasticizer for IV tubes, catheters |
| Blood Bags | Plasticizer for blood collection bags |
| Pharmaceutical Packaging | Plasticizer for blister packs, bottles |
| Drug Delivery Systems | Plasticizer for transdermal patches |
| Medical Bags | Plasticizer for IV bags, drainage bags |
| Tablet Coatings | Plasticizer for film coatings |
| Pharmaceutical Excipients | Excipient for oral formulations |
| Ointment Bases | Emollient, carrier |
Description: In medical and pharmaceutical applications, Tributyl Citrate is used as a plasticizer for medical PVC products including medical tubing, IV tubes, catheters, blood bags, and medical bags. It is also used in pharmaceutical packaging, tablet coatings, and as an excipient. Its low toxicity and FDA approval make it suitable for these sensitive applications. It offers an alternative to phthalate plasticizers in medical applications.
ITEM 12: CHILDREN'S TOY AND BABY PRODUCT APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Children's Toys | Plasticizer for soft PVC toys |
| Baby Products | Plasticizer for baby care items |
| Teething Rings | Plasticizer for safe baby products |
| Soft Toys | Plasticizer for flexible materials |
| Play Mats | Plasticizer for soft mats |
| Inflatable Toys | Plasticizer for PVC inflatables |
| Baby Bottle Nipples | Plasticizer (special grades) |
Description: Tributyl Citrate is approved for use in children's toys and baby products in many countries. Its low toxicity, phthalate-free composition, and excellent compatibility with soft PVC make it suitable for teething rings, soft toys, play mats, and other children's products. It provides an alternative to phthalate plasticizers, which are restricted in many jurisdictions.
ITEM 13: COSMETIC AND PERSONAL CARE APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Nail Polishes | Plasticizer, film former |
| Hair Sprays | Plasticizer, film former |
| Creams and Lotions | Emollient, carrier |
| Perfumes | Solvent, carrier |
| Makeup Products | Plasticizer, film former |
| Sun Care Products | Carrier, plasticizer |
| Skin Care Products | Emollient, carrier |
| Deodorants | Carrier, solvent |
| Shaving Products | Carrier, emollient |
Description: In cosmetics, Tributyl Citrate is used as a plasticizer in nail polishes and hair sprays. It provides flexibility and durability to nail polish films. Its non-toxic and non-irritating profile makes it suitable for various personal care applications. It can also function as a carrier, solvent, and emollient in creams, lotions, and perfume formulations.
ITEM 14: ADHESIVE AND SEALANT APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Adhesives | Plasticizer, flexibility enhancer |
| Hot Melt Adhesives | Plasticizer, viscosity modifier |
| Pressure-sensitive Adhesives | Plasticizer, tackifier |
| Sealants | Plasticizer, flexibility |
| Construction Adhesives | Plasticizer, durability |
| Packaging Adhesives | Plasticizer, flexibility |
| Tape Adhesives | Plasticizer, tackifier |
Description: In adhesives and sealants, Tributyl Citrate is used as a plasticizer and flexibility enhancer. It improves adhesion, flexibility, and durability of adhesive formulations. It is compatible with various adhesive systems including hot melt, pressure-sensitive, and construction adhesives.
ITEM 15: FLAVOR AND FRAGRANCE APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Flavors | Solvent, carrier |
| Fragrances | Solvent, carrier, fixative |
| Essential Oils | Solvent, carrier |
| Flavoring Agents | Carrier, diluent |
| Fragrance Fixatives | Fixative, carrier |
Description: Tributyl Citrate is used in flavors and fragrances as a solvent, carrier, and fixative. Its mild fruity odor and low toxicity make it suitable for use in flavor and fragrance formulations. It is also used as a carrier for essential oils and aroma compounds.
ITEM 16: DETERGENT AND CLEANING APPLICATIONS
| Application | Function / Description |
|---|---|
| Liquid Detergents | Solvent, plasticizer |
| Industrial Cleaners | Solvent, carrier |
| Surface Cleaners | Solvent, plasticizer |
| Household Cleaners | Solvent, carrier |
| Specialty Cleaners | Solvent, plasticizer |
Description: In detergents and cleaning applications, Tributyl Citrate is used as a solvent, carrier, and plasticizer. Its excellent solvency and compatibility make it suitable for various cleaning formulations.
ITEM 17: SECTOR COMPATIBILITY MATRIX
| Industry | Suitability | Application | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastics & Polymers | Excellent | PVC plasticizer, cellulose acetate, biopolymers | High compatibility |
| Food Packaging | Excellent | PVC films, containers, seals | FDA, EU approved |
| Medical Devices | Excellent | Medical tubing, blood bags, catheters | Low toxicity, phthalate-free |
| Children's Toys | Excellent | Soft PVC toys, baby products | Phthalate-free, safe |
| Cosmetics | Good | Nail polish, hair sprays, creams | Non-toxic, non-irritating |
| Adhesives | Good | Plasticizer, flexibility enhancer | Good compatibility |
| Flavors & Fragrances | Good | Solvent, carrier, fixative | Mild odor, low toxicity |
| Pharmaceuticals | Good | Excipient, tablet coating plasticizer | FDA approved |
| Detergents & Cleaners | Good | Solvent, carrier | Moderate use |
| Biodegradable Polymers | Excellent | PLA, PBAT plasticizer | High compatibility |
ITEM 18: SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50) | > 5,000 mg/kg (very low toxicity) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity | Very low |
| Skin Irritation | Non-irritating |
| Eye Irritation | Mild irritant |
| Skin Sensitization | Non-sensitizing |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Mutagenicity | Not classified |
| Reproductive Toxicity | Not classified |
| FDA Status | Approved for food contact |
| EU Approval | Approved for food contact |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable |
| Phthalate-free | Yes |
Description: Tributyl Citrate has very low toxicity (LD50 > 5,000 mg/kg) and is considered safe for use in food packaging, medical devices, and children's toys. It is non-irritating to the skin and non-sensitizing. It is not classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reproductive toxicant. It is readily biodegradable and phthalate-free, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional phthalate plasticizers.
ITEM 19: HANDLING, STORAGE, AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | 15 – 30°C |
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Light | Protect from direct sunlight |
| Materials to Avoid | Strong oxidizers, acids, bases |
| Packaging Materials | Stainless steel, HDPE, glass |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (unopened, recommended conditions) |
| Signs of Degradation | Color darkening, acidity increase, odor change |
| Incompatibilities | Strong oxidizers, strong acids, strong bases |
PACKAGING INFORMATION
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard Packaging | 200 kg steel drums |
| Bulk Packaging | 1000 kg IBC, ISO containers |
| Small Packaging | 25 L jerrycans, 1 L laboratory bottles |
| Packaging Materials | Steel, HDPE, glass |
ITEM 20: SYNONYMS AND ALIASES
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Tributyl Citrate | Most common name |
| TBC | Abbreviation |
| Citric Acid Tributyl Ester | Chemical name |
| Tri-n-butyl Citrate | Chemical name |
| Butyl Citrate | Short name |
| Citroflex 4 | Trade name |
| Morflex TBC | Trade name |
| Tributyl 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate | IUPAC name |
| 1,2,3-Propane-tricarboxylic acid, 2-hydroxy-, tributyl ester | Chemical name |
| C18H32O7 | Chemical formula |
QUALITY AND CERTIFICATION SUMMARY
| Certificate / Standard | Status |
|---|---|
| ISO 9001:2015 | Certified manufacturing sites |
| REACH (EC 1907/2006) | Registered and compliant |
| FDA 21 CFR | Approved for food contact |
| EU Regulation (EC) No 10/2011 | Approved for food contact |
| USP/EP | Pharmaceutical grade available |
| Halal | Available upon request |
| Kosher | Available upon request |
| Vegan | Suitable |
Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet provides typical values for reference purposes only. All values are based on standard laboratory measurements and do not constitute a binding specification. For binding properties, please request the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each specific batch. The user is solely responsible for determining product suitability for their intended application and for compliance with all applicable regulations. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) must be requested from the supplier before use.
