Methyl lactate, with the CAS number 547 - 64 - 8, is a colorless to slightly yellowish liquid with a mild, pleasant odor. It is an ester formed by the condensation of lactic acid and methanol. Its molecular formula is C₄H₈O₃, and it has a molecular weight of approximately 104.1 g/mol.
The boiling point of methyl lactate is around 145 - 146 °C, and its melting point is -66 °C. It has a relative density of about 1.09 g/cm³ at 20 °C. Methyl lactate is soluble in water as well as in most organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and acetone. It is also biodegradable, which makes it an environmentally friendly option in many applications.
Solvent: Methyl lactate is widely used as a solvent in various industries. In the paint and coating industry, it can dissolve a wide range of resins, polymers, and pigments. It provides good solvency power, quick drying, and low toxicity. It is also used as a solvent in the printing ink industry, where it helps to disperse pigments evenly and improve the flow properties of the ink.
Cleaning Agent: Due to its excellent solvency and biodegradability, it is an ideal ingredient in cleaning products. It can be used to clean electronic components, precision instruments, and industrial equipment. In household cleaning, it can be found in floor cleaners, glass cleaners, and degreasers.
Food Industry: Methyl lactate is used as a flavoring agent in the food industry. It can contribute to the flavor and aroma of some food products. Additionally, it can be used as a preservative in some food applications because of its antimicrobial properties.
Solvent Usage: When using methyl lactate as a solvent, it is important to ensure proper ventilation in the working area. First, determine the appropriate concentration according to the solute and the desired effect. Then, add the solute slowly to the methyl lactate while stirring continuously until it is completely dissolved. After use, the container should be tightly sealed to prevent evaporation.
Cleaning Usage: For cleaning applications, dilute methyl lactate with water in the recommended ratio. Dip a cleaning cloth or sponge into the solution and use it to wipe the surface to be cleaned. For stubborn stains, you may need to let the solution soak on the stain for a few minutes before scrubbing. Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water after cleaning.
Food Industry Usage: In the food industry, methyl lactate should be used in accordance with relevant food safety regulations. Add it in the appropriate amount during the food production process, and make sure it is evenly distributed in the food product.
Paint Manufacturing Company: A paint manufacturing company was facing challenges with traditional solvents that had high volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. They switched to using methyl lactate as a solvent in their water - based paints. As a result, their paints not only met the strict environmental regulations but also had better drying times and a more uniform finish. The customers were more satisfied with the product quality, and the company was able to expand its market share.
Electronics Cleaning Service: An electronics cleaning service provider used methyl lactate to clean circuit boards. They found that methyl lactate could effectively remove grease, dust, and flux residues without damaging the sensitive electronic components. The cleaning process was faster and more efficient compared to their previous cleaning methods. This led to a reduction in the turnaround time for their cleaning services and an increase in customer loyalty.
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