Propyl acetate
Description
Propyl acetate (CAS 109-60-4), also known by its abbreviation NPAC, is an ester solvent and flavoring agent used across printing, personal care, and food industries.
It dissolves a broad range of resins, coatings, and fragrance materials, offering a moderate evaporation rate that suits both industrial solvent applications and sensory formulation work.
In printing and packaging, NPAC is used as a carrier solvent in flexographic and gravure inks, where its evaporation profile supports print quality and press-speed requirements.
Personal care formulators incorporate it into nail care products, hair sprays, and perfume bases as a solvent and diluent for film-forming resins and fragrance concentrates.
In food and beverage manufacturing, it functions as a flavoring ingredient — FEMA 2925 — contributing fruity, pear-like top notes to confectionery, beverages, and baked goods.
It also serves as a process solvent in flavor extraction and concentration operations. Propyl acetate is supplied as a clear liquid in drums, IBCs, and bulk tanker quantities.
Technical grade is standard for industrial solvent applications, while food-grade material meeting FCC specifications is available for flavor and food processing use.
Purity levels of 99% and above are typical across commercial supply. This versatile ester remains a staple for manufacturers requiring reliable solvency and aromatic properties.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | -93 °C |
| Boiling Point | 101.5 °C @ Press: 760 Torr |
| Density | 0.836 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Flash Point | 55 °F |
| Appearance | n-Propyl acetate is a colorless liquid with a mild, fruity odor. The Odor Threshold is 70 milligram per cubic meter and 2.8 milligram per cubic meter (New Jersey Fact Sheet). |
| Color | APHA: ≤15 |
| Odor | Mild fruity. |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 2g/100 mL (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 25 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | n 20/D 1.384(lit.) |
| Log P | 1.4 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29153900 |
| UN Number | 1276 |
| ADR Class | 3 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Storage Class | 3 - Flammable liquids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
propyl ethanoate|N-Propyl ethanoate|n-propyl ester of acetic acid|n-propyl acetate|Acetic acid,propyl ester|Acetic acid, N-propyl ester|1-Propyl acetate|1-acetoxypropane|NPAC
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