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ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE

Last update on Jan 9, 2025
Acetyl Tributyl Citrate is a sustainable and versatile ingredient known in cosmetics as a plasticizer and solvent. It improves flexibility and reduces brittleness in film-forming cosmetics like nail polishes and hair sprays. It also enhances the solubility and performance of active ingredients, particularly in water-insoluble formulations. Additionally, this ingredient has moisturizing effects that soften and condition the skin. In its raw form, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate appears as a clear and colorless liquid with a faint odor. It is a phthalate-free and safer alternative to traditional plasticizers such as dibutyl phthalate. The chemical formula of Acetyl Tributyl Citrate is C20H34O8.
CAS Number: 77-90-7Chem/IUPAC Name: Tributyl 2-acetoxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylateEINECS/ELINCS No: 201-067-0COSING REF No: 73988

Products with ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE

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COLUCHIP CARMINE BS 545

by B & Sens

INCI: CI 15850 | ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE | ETHYLCELLULOSE
  • Sustainable option

COLUCHIP BROWN BS 580

by B & Sens

INCI: CI 77491 | ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE | ETHYLCELLULOSE
  • Sustainable option

COLUCHIP BLACK BS 592

by B & Sens

INCI: CI 77266 | ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE | ETHYLCELLULOSE
  • Sustainable option

What is ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE used for?

Acetyl Tributyl Citrate is primarily used in cosmetics as a phthalate-free plasticizer and solvent. It enhances the flexibility, durability, and film-forming properties of cosmetic products. Its emollient properties make it a gentle skin-conditioning agent in lipsticks, lip glosses, and skincare products. Additionally, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate functions as a fixative in fragrances, prolonging scent longevity. It is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plasticizers, offering biodegradability and low toxicity. Widely appreciated for its safety profile, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate is ideal for creating effective, sustainable, and consumer-friendly cosmetic formulations across various product categories.

Origin

Acetyl Tributyl Citrate is synthesized through the esterification of citric acid with butanol and subsequent acetylation with acetic anhydride. Citric acid, often derived from the fermentation of sugars, reacts with butanol in the presence of a catalyst, forming tributyl citrate. This intermediate is then acetylated at the hydroxyl group of the citric acid backbone using acetic anhydride.

What does ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE do in a formulation?

FILM FORMING|
MASKING|
PERFUMING|
PLASTICISER|
SOLVENT

Safety Profile

Acetyl Tributyl Citrate is non-toxic and has been approved for use in cosmetics by regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EU. It has low toxicity and is biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly alternative to phthalate-based plasticizers. Studies show that Acetyl Tributyl Citrate has a minimal risk of skin irritation or sensitization, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin. However, patch testing is recommended prior to full application.

ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE alternatives

ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE technical profile

Property Values
Boiling Point 327°C
Melting Point -80°C
pH Neutral
Solubility Insoluble in water; highly soluble in oil
Viscosity Low to moderate