E

Ethyl lactate

IUPAC: ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate

C5H10O3 Solvents CAS 97-64-3
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationC5H10O3
CAS Number97-64-3
Molecular Weight118.13
Melting Point-26 °C
Boiling Point309 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)
Density1.03 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink
SolubilityMiscible with water
AppearanceEthyl lactate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a mild odor. Flash point 115 °F. Denser than water and soluble in water. Vapors heavier than air.
Also Known Asethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate; 97-64-3; Ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate; Solactol; Actylol; Acytol; Ethyl 2-hydroxypropionate; Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, ethyl ester; Lactate d'ethyle; 2-Hydroxypropanoic acid ethyl ester
CategorySolvents

What is Ethyl lactate?

Ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate is the ethyl ester obtained of 2-hydroxypropanoic acid. It has a role as a metabolite. It is an ethyl ester, a secondary alcohol and a lactate ester. It is functionally related to a 2-hydroxypropanoic acid.

Formula & Notation

C5H10O3

IUPAC Name: ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate

Other Names / Synonyms: ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate; 97-64-3; Ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate; Solactol; Actylol; Acytol; Ethyl 2-hydroxypropionate; Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, ethyl ester; Lactate d'ethyle; 2-Hydroxypropanoic acid ethyl ester

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Ethyl lactate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a mild odor. Flash point 115 °F. Denser than water and soluble in water. Vapors heavier than air.. Molecular formula: C5H10O3. Molecular weight: 118.13 g/mol. Boiling point: 309 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999). Melting point: -26 °C. Density: 1.03 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink. Solubility: Miscible with water. Vapor pressure: 3.75 [mmHg]. LogP: 0.2.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point-26 °C
Boiling Point309 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)
Density1.03 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink
Molecular Weight118.13
SolubilityMiscible with water
AppearanceEthyl lactate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a mild odor. Flash point 115 °F. Denser than water and soluble in water. Vapors heavier than air.

Uses & Applications

Used as a reaction solvent in organic synthesis, extraction solvent, cleaning agent, or in pharmaceutical manufacture.

Safety Information

Flammable solvent. Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flame. Use in well-ventilated area or fume hood. Consult SDS before use.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Ethyl lactate
Formula C5H10O3
CAS Number 97-64-3
Molecular Weight 118.13
Category Solvents
Synonyms ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate; 97-64-3; Ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate; Solactol; Actylol; Acytol; Ethyl 2-hydroxypropionate; Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, ethyl ester; Lactate d'ethyle; 2-Hydroxypropanoic acid ethyl ester

Frequently Asked Questions

Ethyl 2-hydroxypropanoate is the ethyl ester obtained of 2-hydroxypropanoic acid. It has a role as a metabolite. It is an ethyl ester, a secondary alcohol and a lactate ester. It is functionally related to a 2-hydroxypropanoic acid.

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.