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Send EmailAcetyl Tributyl Citrate, Tributyl Acetylcitrate, ATBC, 77-90-7
ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE (ATBC)
Acetyl Tributyl Citrate - Citroflex A-4
CAS: 77-90-7
| Document Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Document No | TDS-ATBC-2026-001-EN |
| Revision | 01 |
| Issue Date | 06.2026 |
| Product Name | Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (ATBC) |
| CAS Number | 77-90-7 |
| EC Number | 201-067-0 |
| FEMA Number | 3080 |
| Chemical Class | Citric Acid Ester (Plasticizer) |
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| IUPAC Name | Tributyl 2-acetyloxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate |
| INCI Name | Acetyl Tributyl Citrate |
| Chemical Formula | C₂₀H₃₄O₈ |
| Molecular Weight | 402.5 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 77-90-7 |
| EC Number | 201-067-0 |
| FEMA Number | 3080 |
| EINECS | 201-067-0 |
Description: Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (ATBC) is a phthalate-free, environmentally friendly plasticizer derived from natural citric acid. Its non-toxic nature makes it the preferred choice for sensitive applications such as food packaging, medical devices, and children's toys.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Family | Organic Ester (Citric Acid Derivative) |
| Raw Material Source | Citric Acid + Butanol (fermentation-based) |
| Functional Groups | Ester (-COOR), Acetyl (-O-CO-CH₃) |
| Structural Feature | Three butyl ester groups on citric acid, hydroxyl group acetylated |
Chemical Structure:
text
O
||
C₄H₉O-C-CH₂
|
C₄H₉O-C-C-OC(=O)CH₃
|
C₄H₉O-C-CH₂
||
O
SMILES: CCCCOC(=O)CC(CC(=O)OCCCC)(C(=O)OCCCC)OC(=O)C
InChI Key: QZCLKYGREBVARF-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Description: ATBC is produced by esterification of citric acid with butanol followed by acetylation of the central hydroxyl group. This acetylation enhances hydrolytic stability and compatibility with polymers.
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid | Visual Inspection |
| Physical Form | Oily liquid | Visual Inspection |
| Color (Pt-Co) | Max 30 | ASTM D1209 |
| Odor | Very faint sweet, fruity | Organoleptic |
| Odor | Practically odorless | Organoleptic |
Description: ATBC is a clear, colorless, and practically odorless oily liquid. It is characterized by high purity (>99%) and contains no visible sediment or turbidity.
| Property | Specification | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density (25°C) | 1.045 – 1.055 g/cm³ | 1.048 g/cm³ | ASTM D891 |
| Density (20°C) | – | 1.050 g/cm³ | ASTM D891 |
| Specific Gravity (25/25°C) | 1.045 – 1.055 | 1.050 | ASTM D891 |
Description: ATBC is denser than water (1.0 g/cm³). This property is important for density adjustments and phase separation calculations in formulations.
| Property | Specification / Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Freezing Point | -59 °C | DSC |
| Freezing Point | -80 °C | DSC |
| Boiling Point | 327 °C | – |
| Boiling Point (0.1 MPa) | 343 °C | – |
| Boiling Point (1 mmHg) | 172 – 174 °C | – |
| Flash Point (Closed Cup) | 204 °C | ASTM D93 |
| Evaporation Rate | <1 (Butyl Acetate=1) | – |
| Vapor Pressure | 3 x 10⁻⁷ mmHg (25°C) | – |
Description: ATBC has a very low freezing point of -59°C and remains liquid over a wide temperature range. The high flash point of 204°C ensures safe processing and handling.
| Property | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Refractive Index (25°C) | 1.4410 – 1.4425 | ASTM D1218 |
| Refractive Index (20°C) | 1.440 – 1.445 | ASTM D1218 |
| Viscosity (25°C) | 32.7 cP | – |
| Surface Tension | ~30 dyn/cm (estimated) | – |
| Hydrolysis Rate (100°C) | 0.1% / 6 hours | – |
Description: Refractive index is a critical parameter for purity and identity verification. Deviations from the specified range may indicate potential changes in product purity or composition.
| Solvent / Medium | Solubility / Miscibility |
|---|---|
| Water | Insoluble (5 mg/L at 20°C) |
| Water | <0.1% |
| Ethanol (Alcohol) | Soluble |
| Oils | Miscible |
| Most Organic Solvents | Completely miscible |
| PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) | High compatibility |
| Cellulose Resins | High compatibility |
| Vinyl Resins | High compatibility |
| Polystyrene | Miscible |
| Cellulose Acetate | Partially miscible |
Description: ATBC has very low solubility in water and is completely miscible with most organic solvents. It shows excellent compatibility with PVC, cellulose, and vinyl resins.
| Parameter | Specification | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity (Ester Content) | ≥ 99.0% | 99.0% | GC |
| Acid Value | ≤ 0.2 mg KOH/g | 0.05 | Titration |
| Acid Value (JECFA) | ≤ 0.02 mg KOH/g | 0.02 | Titration |
| Color (Pt-Co) | ≤ 30 | 15 | ASTM D1209 |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.15% | 0.05 | Karl Fischer |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.25% | 0.15 | Karl Fischer |
| Volatile Matter | ≤ 0.5% | – | – |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm | – | ICP-MS |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 3 ppm | – | ICP-MS |
| Heavy Metals (Total) | ≤ 1 ppm | – | ICP-MS |
Description: ATBC is a high-purity product (>99%). Low acid value and water content ensure high quality and long shelf life. Heavy metal limits comply with strict requirements for food contact and medical applications.
| Parameter | Description / Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Stability | Stable under normal conditions |
| Shelf Life | 2 years (under proper storage) |
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Storage Temperature | Room temperature (15 – 30°C) |
| Materials to Avoid | Strong oxidizers, high heat, moisture |
| Signs of Degradation | Color darkening, acidity increase |
| Stability Warning | Protect from moisture |
Description: When stored under proper conditions (cool, dry environment in original packaging), the shelf life extends up to 2 years. Exposure to high temperatures, moisture, or contact with strong oxidizers may cause degradation.
| Application | Description / Function |
|---|---|
| Food Packaging Films | Plasticizer for PVC (FDA approved) |
| FDA Compliance | FDA 21 CFR §177.2600 - indirect food contact |
| EU Compliance | EU Reg. (EC) No 10/2011 - SML: 60 mg/kg |
| Dairy Products Packaging | Plasticizer in flexible films |
| Beverage Packaging | PVC caps and seals |
| Food Supplements | Coating agent |
| Meat Packaging | DOP alternative for high-fat foods |
| Food Additive | FEMA 3080 - flavoring component |
Description: ATBC is a safe, phthalate-free plasticizer approved for use in food packaging by FDA (USA) and EU regulations. It is particularly a safe alternative to DOP/DEHP for high-fat content foods.
| Application | Description / Function |
|---|---|
| Medical PVC | Blood sets, infusion tubing |
| Blood Bags | PVC plasticizer |
| Dental Materials | Plasticizer, flexibility enhancer |
| Coated Tablets | Film coating plasticizer |
| Artificial Organs | Biocompatible plasticizer |
| Medical Tubing | Flexibility and non-toxic structure |
| Biocompatibility | Low toxicity, no tissue irritation |
Description: ATBC has been used in medical devices since the 1970s. Its non-toxic nature and low water extraction rate make it safe for blood contact applications.
| Application | Description / Function |
|---|---|
| Baby Toys | Phthalate-free safe plasticizer |
| Pacifiers | Soft PVC component |
| Plastic Dolls | Teething toys |
| EU Regulation | Complies with phthalate ban |
| US Market | Recommended by Toy Manufacturers Association |
| Safety | LD50 > 30,000 mg/kg - very low toxicity |
Description: The European Union banned the use of phthalate plasticizers in baby toys starting in the 2000s. ATBC is the preferred safe and non-toxic alternative to comply with these regulations.
| Application Category | Function |
|---|---|
| Nail Polish | Film reinforcing agent, plasticizer |
| Hair Sprays | Film reinforcing agent, resin plasticizer |
| Perfumes | Low-volatility fragrance carrier |
| Deodorants | Carrier, emulsifier |
| Cosmetic INCI Name | Acetyl Tributyl Citrate |
| EU Cosmetics Regulation | Compliant |
Description: INCI name is "Acetyl Tributyl Citrate". It is used as a film reinforcing agent and plasticizer in nail polishes, and as a low-volatility carrier in perfumes.
| Application | Description / Function |
|---|---|
| PVC Granulation | Primary plasticizer |
| PVC Film and Sheet | Flexibility provider |
| PVC Coatings | Plasticizer |
| ABS Resin | Stabilizer |
| Vinyl Acetate Resins | Plasticizer |
| Cellulose Plastics | Plasticizer |
| Inks and Printing | Ink plasticizer for soaps |
| Hot Melt Adhesives | Flexibility provider |
| Sheet Coatings | Lubricant in tinplate surface treatment |
| Air Fresheners | Component |
| Polylactide (PLA) | Biodegradable polymer plasticizer |
Description: ATBC is a versatile plasticizer used in a wide range of industrial applications. It shows high compatibility with PVC, ABS, cellulose, and biopolymers.
| Performance Feature | Description / Value |
|---|---|
| Phthalate-Free | Non-toxic, safe alternative |
| Thermal Stability | Prevents color degradation during processing |
| Cold Resistance | Maintains flexibility at low temperatures |
| Light Resistance | Maintains performance under UV exposure |
| Water Resistance | Low water extraction |
| Biodegradability | 82% degradation in 28 days (OECD 301B) |
| DOP Alternative | Used at approximately 1:1 ratio replacing DOP |
| PVC Tensile Strength | 18.7% higher than TBC |
| PVC Elongation at Break | 2.2% higher than TBC |
Description: ATBC is a safe and high-performance alternative to conventional phthalate plasticizers (DOP, DEHP, DINP). It offers superior heat, cold, light, and water resistance. Performance data shows ATBC provides better mechanical properties in PVC compared to other citrate esters like TBC (Tributyl Citrate).
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50) | > 25,000 – 30,000 mg/kg (rat) |
| Acute Oral Toxicity | LD50 = 4000 mg/kg |
| Skin Irritation | Mild irritation possible |
| Skin Sensitization | Non-sensitizing |
| Eye Irritation | Mild irritation possible |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Mutagenicity | Not classified |
| Reproductive Toxicity | Non-toxic (unlike phthalates) |
| Liver Effect | No pathological changes compared to DOP/TCP |
| Bioaccumulation Potential | Low |
| Metabolism | Rapidly metabolized in the body |
Description: ATBC has significantly lower toxicity compared to phthalate plasticizers. The LD50 value is in the range of 25,000-30,000 mg/kg, which falls into the "practically non-toxic" category. Unlike DOP/DEHP phthalates, ATBC does not cause organ damage and shows no reproductive toxicity.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Biodegradability | OECD 301B: 82% degradation in 28 days |
| Biodegradability | Classified as "Readily Biodegradable" |
| Bioaccumulation Potential | Low - ecological risk minimal |
| Ecotoxicity (Aquatic) | Low toxicity |
| Persistence | Not persistent in the environment |
| VOC Content | Low |
| Renewable Content | Citric acid (fermentation-based) |
| Bio-based Source | Natural citric acid |
Description: ATBC shows 82% biodegradability in 28 days according to OECD 301B testing, placing it in the "readily biodegradable" category. This property minimizes ecological risk and provides advantages for environmentally friendly product certifications.
| Certificate / Standard | Status / Compliance |
|---|---|
| FDA 21 CFR 175.105 | Compliant as adhesive component |
| FDA 21 CFR 175.300 | Resinous and polymeric coatings |
| FDA 21 CFR 175.320 | Polyvinyl chloride films |
| FDA 21 CFR 176.170 | Paper/paperboard components |
| FDA 21 CFR 178.3910 | As plasticizer |
| FDA 21 CFR 181.27 | Polymer additive |
| FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 | Indirect food contact |
| EU Reg. (EC) No 10/2011 | Food contact, SML: 60 mg/kg |
| FDA GRAS | FEMA 3080 - flavoring agent |
| JECFA | Meets specifications (evaluation 2000) |
| REACH (EU) | Registered and compliant |
| TSCA (USA) | Listed |
| EINECS | 201-067-0 |
| USP/EP Reference Standard | Pharmaceutical grade available |
| EU Cosmetics Regulation | Compliant (INCI listed) |
Description: ATBC complies with the strictest global regulatory requirements. It is approved for food contact, medical devices, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical applications according to FDA and EU regulations.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | Room temperature (15 – 30°C) |
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Light | Protect from direct sunlight |
| Materials to Avoid | Strong oxidizers, high heat, moisture |
| Packaging Materials | Steel drum, IBC, stainless steel |
| Shelf Life | 2 years (under proper conditions) |
| Signs of Degradation | Color darkening, acidity increase |
| Spill Cleanup | Collect with absorbent material |
| Waste Disposal | Comply with local regulations |
Description: Remains stable for 2 years when stored in a cool, dry place in original packaging. Contact with high temperatures, moisture, or strong oxidizers should be avoided.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard Packaging | 200 – 220 kg steel drum |
| Bulk Packaging | 215 kg D/M drum, 1,000 kg IBC |
| Small Packaging | 25 ml, 250 ml, 500 ml, 1 L (laboratory) |
| Packaging Materials | Steel, HDPE, glass |
| Labeling | Product code, batch number, net weight, safety warnings |
| Transport Classification | Not classified as dangerous goods |
| Synonym | Description |
|---|---|
| ATBC | Most commonly used abbreviation |
| Tributyl Acetylcitrate | Chemical name |
| Tributyl O-Acetylcitrate | Chemical name |
| Tributyl 2-Acetoxy-1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylate | IUPAC name |
| Citroflex A-4 | Trade name (Pfizer) |
| Uniplex 84 | Trade name |
| Estaflex ATC | Trade name |
| FEMA No. 3080 | Flavoring agent code |
| Acetylcitric Acid Tributyl Ester | Chemical name |
| Tributyl Citrate Acetate | Chemical name |
| Industry | Suitability | Primary Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Food Packaging | Excellent (FDA/EU) | PVC plasticizer, flexible films |
| Medical Devices | Excellent (FDA) | Blood tubing, infusion sets |
| Children's Toys | Excellent | Phthalate alternative, safe plasticizer |
| Cosmetics | Excellent (INCI) | Nail polish, hair spray, perfume |
| Pharmaceutical | Good (USP/EP) | Coated tablets, excipient |
| Polymer & Plastics | Excellent | PVC, ABS, cellulose, PLA plasticizer |
| Inks & Printing | Good | Plasticizer, carrier |
| Adhesives | Good | Flexibility provider |
| Coatings | Good | Film former, plasticizer |
| Certificate / Standard | Status |
|---|---|
| ISO 9001:2015 | Certified manufacturing sites |
| FDA 21 CFR | Approved for food contact and medical devices |
| EU Reg. (EC) No 10/2011 | Food contact compliant |
| REACH (EC 1907/2006) | Registered and compliant |
| USP/EP Reference Standard | Pharmaceutical grade available |
| FEMA GRAS | Safe as flavoring agent |
| USDA Bio-based | Certified (source-based) |
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.