Agent Name |
Ethyl lactate |
CAS Number |
97-64-3 |
Formula |
C5-H10-O3 |
Major Category |
Solvents |
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 |
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] |
Exposure Assessment |
Skin Designation (ACGIH) |
Not evaluated |
Vapor Pressure |
3.75 mm Hg |
Odor Threshold Low |
0.2 ppm |
Odor Threshold High |
1.66 ppm |
Explanatory Notes |
Flash point = 46 deg C; Odor threshold from CHEMINFO; |
Flammability (NFPA) |
2: high ambient temperature required |
Adverse Effects |
Neurotoxin |
CNS Solvent Syndrome |
Links to Other NLM Databases |
Health Studies |
Human Health Effects from Hazardous Substances Data Bank: ETHYL LACTATE
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