Solvents
REACH
Ethyl L-lactate
CAS Number
687-47-8
EC Number
211-694-1
What is Ethyl L-lactate?
Ethyl L-lactate (CAS 687-47-8) is the L-enantiomer of ethyl lactate, a naturally derived ester produced from lactic acid and ethanol. FEMA 2440.
Where is Ethyl L-lactate used?
- Food and beverage: mild, creamy, buttery note in flavor systems; acidulant in confectionery and dairy-style formulations
- Cosmetics: solvent and humectant carrier in skin-care products
- Plastics and polymers: processing solvent and stabilizer for biopolymers, including PLA-based systems
- Coatings and cleaning: carrier solvent requiring low toxicity and high biodegradability
- It solubilizes active ingredients to support stable emulsion and serum formulations.
Good to know: Food-grade material meets FCC standards for direct use in flavor applications. High-purity grades are available for cosmetic and specialty solvent applications.
Commercial specifications
- Bulk quantities in drums and IBC containers
- High-purity grades for cosmetic and specialty solvent applications
Other Names (Synonyms)
(L)-ethyl lactate|Ethyl (S)-2-hydroxypropionate|Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, ethyl ester, (2S)-|(-)-ethyl lactate|GA1IKU79WZ|(S)-(-)-ethyl lactate|Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, ethyl ester, (S)-|Lactic acid, ethyl ester, (-)-
What are the physical properties of Ethyl L-lactate?
Melting Point −26 °C(lit.)
Boiling Point 154 °C
Density 1.025 g/cm³ @ Temp: 31 °C
Flash Point 120 °F
Appearance clear liquid
Color Clear colorless to pale yellow
Odor fruit-like odor
Form Liquid
Water Solubility SOLUBLE
Vapor Pressure 2 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.4130(lit.)
pH 4 (50g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P 0.31 at 20℃
How is Ethyl L-lactate classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS05· Corrosive GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H226 Flammable liquid and vapor
H318 Causes serious eye damage
H335 May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary Statements
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P233 Keep container tightly closed.
P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
P241 Use explosion-proof [electrical/ventilating/lighting/…] equipment.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Ethyl L-lactate?
HS Code 29181100
UN Number 1192
ADR Class 3
Packing Group III
Storage Class 3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany) 1