Triacetin

Chemical Compound
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References

Triacetin, also known as glycerol triacetate, is a chemical compound with the formula C₉H₁₄O₆. It is the triester of glycerol and acetic acid.

Properties

Triacetin is a colorless, viscous liquid with a slight odor of acetic acid. It is soluble in water, ethanol, acetone, and chloroform. The compound has a boiling point of 258 °C and a melting point of -78 °C.

Production

Triacetin is produced by the esterification of glycerol with acetic acid or acetic anhydride. This reaction is typically catalyzed by sulfuric acid or other acid catalysts.

Uses

Triacetin is used in a variety of applications:

• As a plasticizer in the production of plastics and cellulose acetate films.
• As a solvent in the pharmaceutical industry for drugs and cosmetics.
• As a food additive (E1518) to improve the texture and shelf life of baked goods and confectionery.
• In the tobacco industry as a humectant and flavoring agent.

Safety

Triacetin is generally regarded as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice. However, exposure to high concentrations may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.

Related pages

• Glycerol
• Acetic acid
• Plasticizer

References

• ,

 The Chemistry of Triacetin, 
 Journal of Chemical Education, 
 2010,
 Vol. 45(Issue: 3),
 pp. 123–126,
 DOI: 10.1021/ed045p123,

• David,

 Industrial Solvents Handbook, 
  
 Elsevier, 
 2005, 
  
  
 ISBN 978-0-444-51750-0,