Butyl lactate

CAS: 138-22-7

Overview

Butyl lactate (CAS 138-22-7 ), also known by its FEMA 2205 designation, is a slow-evaporating ester solvent derived from lactic acid used across industrial, cosmetic, and food applications.

It combines strong solvency with low toxicity, making it a preferred alternative to conventional petrochemical solvents in formulations requiring a more favorable regulatory and environmental profile.

In coatings, inks, and polymer processing, it dissolves resins, nitrocellulose, and cellulose acetate butyrate where controlled evaporation rate and film quality are critical for the final product.

Personal care formulators use it as a carrier solvent in nail care products, fragrances, and skin formulations where compatibility with active ingredients and low irritation potential drive solvent selection.

As a flavoring agent, it contributes buttery, creamy top notes to food and beverage products including dairy analogs, baked goods, and confectionery. It also functions as a plasticizer and coalescing agent.

Butyl lactate is supplied as a clear liquid in drum and IBC quantities, with bulk tanker options available for high-volume industrial buyers. Standard commercial grades include technical grade for solvents.

Food and flavor grades meeting specific purity specifications are available for sensitive applications. Kosher and natural-origin certified material is available from select producers to support clean-label positioning.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	-28 °C
Boiling Point	186 °C
Density	0.9815 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C; Press: 759.8 Torr
Flash Point	157 °F
Appearance	CLEAR COLOURLESS LIQUID
Color	Clear colorless
Odor	at 100.00 %. green fruity apple kiwi melon rind lactonic waxy winey apple skin soapy
Form	Liquid
Water Solubility	42 g/L (25 ºC)
Vapor Pressure	0.4 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index	n 20/D 1.421(lit.)
Log P	0.88

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS05 GHS07 Hazard Statements H227 Combustible liquid H315 Causes skin irritation H318 Causes serious eye damage H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness Precautionary Statements P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P317 Get emergency medical help. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P403 Store in a well-ventilated place. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P370+P378 Use … for extinction. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	29155090
Storage Class	10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany)	2

Other Names

Industries

Plastics & Polymers Food & Nutrition Personal Care & Cosmetics