Ethyl lactate

Synonyms

2-Hydroxypropanoic acid ethyl ester; Actylol; Acytol; Ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate; Ethyl 2-hydroxypropionate; Ethyl alpha-hydroxypropionate; Ethyl lactate; Ethyl lactate (natural); Ethylester kyseliny mlecne [Czech]; Lactate d'ethyle [French]; Lactic acid, ethyl ester; Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, ethyl ester; Solactol; [ChemIDplus] UN1192

Category

Esters (<C12)

Description

Colorless liquid with characteristic odor; [Sullivan, p. 450]

Sources/Uses

Used as a solvent substitute for glycol ethers in photolithography in the semiconductor manufacturing industry; used in some nail polish removers; [Sullivan, p. 450-1] Used as a solvent for resins, dyes, and coatings; has FDA approval for use as a food flavoring agent; [HSDB]

Comments

It is similar to ethyl acetate with low toxicity. Does not cause skin irritation or sensitization; No mutagenic effects in bacteria; High doses can cause central nervous system depression. [Sullivan, p. 450-1] Inhalation of high concentrations may cause drowsiness; Liquid is a mild eye irritant; [CAMEO]

Biomedical References

3.75 mm Hg

0.2 ppm

Odor Threshold High

1.66 ppm

Explanatory Notes

Flash point = 46 deg C; Odor threshold from CHEMINFO; VP from HSDB;

high ambient temp required

Acute solvent syndrome

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Encephalopathy, chronic solvent
• Solvents, acute toxic effect

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Painting (Solvents)
• Plastic Composites Manufacturing
• Semiconductor Manufacturing