Triethyl Citrate (TEC) | Pharmaceutical Excipient & Cosmetic Ingredient

Triethyl Citrate

( CDMF NO.: F20209990129)

Introduction:

Triethyl Citrate (TEC) is a colorless, nearly odorless liquid ester widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and specialty chemical industries. It is known for its good compatibility with various formulation ingredients and its effectiveness as a plasticizer.

In the pharmaceutical industry, Triethyl Citrate is commonly used as a plasticizer in film coatings for tablets and capsules. It helps improve coating flexibility, reduce brittleness, and enhance the physical properties of pharmaceutical coatings.

In cosmetics and personal care products, it can be used as a formulation ingredient in selected products. Its versatility makes it a useful ingredient across different industrial applications.

Name: Triethyl Citrate

M.F.: C₁₂H₂₀O₇

M.W.: 276.29

CAS No.: 77-93-0

Package: 5kg/bottle/carton, 20kg/drum/carton

Appearance:  

Colorless and clear oily liquid.

Soluble in ethanol, isopropanol or acetone and dissolves in water.

Quality Standard: CP2020; USP43-NF38; EP11.2

Application:

As coating materials, microencapsulation materials, plasticizers for  film agents and film coating agents in pharmaceutical preparations to make the formed film tough and elastic and not easy to crack.

Incompatibility: Incompatible with strong alkalis and oxidants.

Safety: This product is used for oral preparations and can be directly used as food additives.

It is generally considered non-toxic and non-irritating. But Large intake may be harmful.

Storage:  Preserve in airtight containers in cool and dry place.

FAQs

Q1: What is Triethyl Citrate (TEC)?

Triethyl Citrate is an organic ester derived from citric acid and ethanol. It is a colorless liquid commonly used as a plasticizer in pharmaceutical coatings and as a formulation ingredient in other industries.

Q2: What is the CAS number of Triethyl Citrate?

The CAS number of Triethyl Citrate is 77-93-0.

Q3: What is Triethyl Citrate used for in the pharmaceutical industry?

Triethyl Citrate is primarily used as a plasticizer in tablet and capsule film coatings. It improves coating flexibility and helps reduce cracking and brittleness.

Q4: Why is Triethyl Citrate used in tablet coatings?

It helps improve the mechanical properties and flexibility of coating films, contributing to a smoother and more durable coating layer.

Q5: Is Triethyl Citrate used in cosmetics?

Yes. Triethyl Citrate is used in selected cosmetic and personal care formulations, including certain deodorant, fragrance, and skincare products.

Q6: What are the physical properties of Triethyl Citrate?

Triethyl Citrate is typically a colorless, nearly odorless liquid. It has good compatibility with various formulation ingredients and is widely used in different industrial applications.

Q7: Is Triethyl Citrate soluble in water?

Triethyl Citrate has limited solubility in water and is more compatible with many organic solvents and formulation ingredients.

Q8: How should Triethyl Citrate be stored?

Triethyl Citrate should be stored in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Protect it from excessive heat and follow the supplier's storage recommendations and safety data sheet.

Q9: What industries use Triethyl Citrate?

Triethyl Citrate is widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, personal care, food, and specialty chemical industries, depending on its grade and applicable regulatory requirements.