GLYCERYL TRIACETATE (E1518)

INTRODUCTION
Glyceryl triacetate, commonly known as triacetin and identified by the code E1518 in food-related applications, is a clear, colorless, oily liquid ester produced by the esterification of glycerol with acetic acid.
Its mild odor, characteristic physical properties, and thermal stability make it useful in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and various industrial applications.
Its main functions include acting as a solvent, carrier, plasticizer, and, in certain formulations, a moisture-retaining component.
It can be used in the preparation of food flavors, pharmaceutical products, cosmetics, and specialty polymer formulations.

KEY PROPERTIES AND IDENTIFIERS
E Number: E1518
CAS Number: 102-76-1
Chemical Name: Glyceryl triacetate
Alternative Chemical Name: 1,2,3-Propanetriyl triacetate
Common Synonyms: Triacetin, glycerin triacetate, triacetyl glycerol, glyceryl triacetin
EC / EINECS Number: 203-051-9
PubChem CID: 5541
RTECS Number: AK3675000
Molecular Formula: C9H14O6
Molecular Weight: 218.21 g/mol
Physical Appearance: Clear, colorless, oily liquid
Odor: Mild, characteristic odor
Taste: Slightly bitter, oily taste
Density: Approximately 1.155–1.160 g/cm³ at 25 °C
Refractive Index: Approximately 1.430–1.434 at 20 °C
Melting Point: Reported values vary by source, with values ranging approximately from -78 °C to 3 °C.
Boiling Point: Approximately 258–260 °C at standard pressure
Flash Point: Approximately 148–153 °C, depending on the test method
Autoignition Temperature: Reported to be approximately 433 °C
Viscosity: Approximately 21–23 mPa·s at 20 °C
Vapor Pressure: Approximately 0.0025 mmHg at 25 °C
Water Solubility: Limited to moderate solubility in water; some sources report approximately 64 g/L at 20 °C.
Solubility in Organic Solvents: Soluble in various organic solvents, including ethanol, diethyl ether, acetone, and chloroform.
Hydrolysis: Can gradually hydrolyze in the presence of water to form glycerol and acetic acid.

SYNONYMS AND CHEMICAL NAMES:
Triacetin
Glycerine Triacetate
Glycerol Triacetate
1,2,3-Triacetoxypropane
1,2,3-Propanetriol triacetate
Glyceryl triacetate
Food Additive E1518
INS 1518

PRODUCTION AND SYNTHESIS
Synthesis Process: Glyceryl triacetate can be produced by esterifying glycerol with acetic acid or acetic anhydride in the presence of an acid catalyst.
Catalysts: Sulfuric acid or suitable solid acid catalysts may be used.
Purification: Depending on the intended application, the crude product is purified through processes such as neutralization, washing, and distillation.
By-products and Impurities: Depending on the production method and product grade, residual monoacetin, diacetin, free acetic acid, and water may be present.
High Purity: Commercial purity is determined by the manufacturer's specifications; high-purity grades may contain more than 99% triacetin.

DETAILED APPLICATIONS AND FUNCTIONAL USES

1) FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRY
Flavor Solvent and Carrier: In suitable formulations, it helps dissolve and distribute essential oils and flavoring ingredients and retain them within the formulation.
Humectant: It may contribute to moisture retention in certain food formulations.
Chewing Gum Production: It can be used as a plasticizer and softening agent in chewing gum bases, influencing flexibility and chewing characteristics.
Formulation Aid: It may serve as a solvent or auxiliary ingredient in selected products.
Note: Permitted food categories and use levels must be verified against the applicable regulations.

2) TOBACCO INDUSTRY
Cellulose Acetate Filter Plasticizer: It helps bind cellulose acetate fibers in cigarette filters, improving the integrity and strength of the filter structure.
Moisture Control: It may help maintain the physical properties of filter materials.

3) PHARMACEUTICAL AND MEDICAL APPLICATIONS
Film-Coating Excipient: It is used as a plasticizer in certain tablet, capsule, and granule coatings, contributing to coating flexibility.
Solvent and Co-solvent: In selected pharmaceutical formulations, it may be used to improve the solubility of active ingredients or excipients.
Topical Applications: It may be included as a solvent or auxiliary ingredient in certain topical formulations.
Drug Delivery Systems: Subject to formulation-specific suitability and safety assessment, it may be used in some specialized drug delivery systems.
Note: Use in parenteral medicines or other specialized medical applications should only be considered for products that meet the applicable pharmaceutical quality and safety requirements.

4) COSMETICS AND PERSONAL CARE
Fragrance Solvent and Fixative: It may be used in perfume and fragrance formulations as a solvent or as an auxiliary ingredient that influences the behavior of fragrance components.
Cosmetic Formulations: It can be included as a solvent or plasticizer in suitable products.
Viscosity and Texture: It may help adjust the texture and physical properties of a formulation.
Note: Suitability for cosmetic use depends on the product type and applicable regulations.

5) INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS
Plastics, Polymers, and Resins: It may be used as a plasticizer in cellulose derivatives, nitrocellulose, ethylcellulose, and certain resin systems.
Cellulose Acetate Products: It can help improve the flexibility and processability of cellulose acetate-based materials.
Fuels and Fuel Additives: It has been investigated in certain research and specialized formulations as a component that may influence fuel properties; its performance must be evaluated for the intended application.
Electronic Cigarette Liquids: It may be used as a carrier solvent in some formulations; safety under inhalation exposure requires separate assessment.
Foundry Binder Systems: It may be used as an auxiliary component in certain specialized resin and binder systems; its function depends on the system.
Energetic Materials: Uses in specialized industrial or energetic formulations must be assessed separately for each product and process.

SAFETY, TOXICOLOGY, AND REGULATORY STATUS
Regulatory Status: The permitted conditions for using glyceryl triacetate as E1518 in food vary by country, product category, and applicable legislation.
US Regulations: Regulatory provisions exist for certain food-related uses; current FDA requirements should be checked for the intended application.
JECFA Assessment: Information on its evaluation as a food additive and its acceptable daily intake status should be verified against current JECFA records.
Toxicological Profile: Safety depends on the amount and route of exposure, product purity, and intended use.
Metabolism: Glyceryl triacetate can be hydrolyzed in the body to glycerol and acetic acid, which enter normal metabolic processes.
Skin and Eye Contact: Irritation potential may depend on product purity and exposure conditions; direct contact should be avoided and the safety data sheet should be consulted.
Inhalation Exposure: Inhalation of vapors or aerosols generated during heating or spraying should be avoided.
Handling and Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area in closed containers made of suitable materials.
Incompatible Materials: Keep away from strong oxidizing agents and any incompatible materials identified in the product safety data sheet.
Important Note: Physical properties, safety information, and permitted uses may vary according to product grade and source. Before use, consult the manufacturer's current technical data sheet (TDS), safety data sheet (SDS), and applicable regulations.

CONTACT ATAMAN KIMYA
For further information, technical specifications, product quality details, and supply inquiries regarding Glyceryl Triacetate (E1518), please contact Ataman Kimya.