What Is 2-hydroxypropanoic acid ethyl ester

Content on WhatAnswers is provided "as is" for informational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees. Content is AI-assisted and should not be used as professional advice.

Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: 2-hydroxypropanoic acid ethyl ester is the ethyl ester of lactic acid, commonly known as ethyl lactate. It is a biodegradable, low-toxicity solvent used in industrial, pharmaceutical, and food applications, with the chemical formula C5H10O3.

Key Facts

Ethyl lactate has the molecular formula C5H10O3 and a molar mass of 118.13 g/mol
It is derived from the esterification of lactic acid and ethanol, typically using acid catalysts
Ethyl lactate is biodegradable, with over 90% degradation within 28 days under OECD standards
It has a boiling point of 154°C (309°F) and a flash point of 54°C (129°F)
The global ethyl lactate market was valued at $127 million in 2022 and is projected to grow at 6.8% CAGR through 2030

Overview

2-Hydroxypropanoic acid ethyl ester, more commonly known as ethyl lactate, is an organic compound formed by the esterification of lactic acid and ethanol. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild fruity odor, widely recognized for its low toxicity and environmental safety. As a green solvent, ethyl lactate is gaining traction in industries seeking sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based solvents.

Its structure combines the chiral center of lactic acid with the ethyl group, resulting in a molecule that is both polar and water-miscible to some extent. This dual solubility makes it valuable in formulations requiring both aqueous and organic phase compatibility. Ethyl lactate is approved by the U.S. FDA as a food additive and is listed by the EPA as a Design for the Environment (DfE) safer solvent.

Chemical synthesis: Ethyl lactate is produced via acid-catalyzed esterification of lactic acid and ethanol at temperatures between 70–120°C, often using sulfuric acid or ion-exchange resins.
Molecular weight: The compound has a molar mass of 118.13 g/mol, making it slightly heavier than ethanol but lighter than many chlorinated solvents.
Biodegradability: Over 90% of ethyl lactate degrades within 28 days in aerobic conditions, meeting OECD 301B biodegradation standards.
Solvent properties: With a Kauri-butanol (KB) value of 75, it dissolves resins, oils, and cellulose derivatives effectively, outperforming many glycol ethers.
Regulatory status: It is listed in the GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) database by the FDA for use in food and flavoring applications.

How It Works

Ethyl lactate functions as a solvent and reaction medium by leveraging its dual polarity and low toxicity. Its mechanism of action depends on its ability to dissolve both polar and nonpolar substances, making it versatile across applications.

Hydrogen bonding: The hydroxyl and ester groups in ethyl lactate allow it to form hydrogen bonds, enhancing solubility in water and polar matrices.
Chirality: Derived from L-lactic acid, most commercial ethyl lactate is enantiomerically pure, which influences its metabolic breakdown and flavor profile.
Boiling point: At 154°C (309°F), it offers a useful evaporation rate for coatings and cleaning applications without requiring excessive energy.
Flash point: With a flash point of 54°C (129°F), it is classified as combustible but safer than many volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
pH stability: It remains stable in neutral to slightly acidic conditions but hydrolyzes back to lactic acid and ethanol under strong alkaline conditions.
Green chemistry role: Ethyl lactate is produced from renewable biomass (e.g., corn starch fermentation), supporting circular economy models.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of ethyl lactate with other common solvents based on key performance and safety metrics:

Solvent	Boiling Point (°C)	Flash Point (°C)	KB Value	Biodegradability (OECD 301B)
Ethyl lactate	154	54	75	90% in 28 days
Acetone	56	-20	155	80% in 14 days
Toluene	111	4	105	0% (persistent)
Isopropyl alcohol	82	12	40	85% in 21 days
Ethyl acetate	77	-4	88	89% in 28 days

Ethyl lactate stands out for its balanced evaporation rate, moderate polarity, and high biodegradability. While its KB value is lower than acetone or toluene, its safety and environmental profile make it a preferred choice in regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals and food processing. Unlike toluene, it does not pose long-term ecological risks, and its renewable origin supports sustainability goals.

Why It Matters

As industries shift toward greener chemistry, ethyl lactate represents a practical, high-performance alternative to hazardous solvents. Its adoption reflects broader trends in regulatory compliance, worker safety, and environmental responsibility.

Pharmaceutical use: Used as a solvent in drug formulations due to low cytotoxicity and high biocompatibility, especially in transdermal patches.
Food industry: Approved as a flavoring agent in baked goods, beverages, and candies, contributing a mild, creamy note.
Coatings and inks: Replaces ethylbenzene and xylene in industrial coatings, reducing VOC emissions by up to 60%.
Electronics cleaning: Effective in removing flux residues without damaging sensitive components, thanks to its moderate polarity and low residue.
Agrochemical formulations: Enhances solubility of active ingredients in pesticides while being non-phytotoxic to crops.
Market growth: The global ethyl lactate market reached $127 million in 2022 and is projected to grow at 6.8% CAGR through 2030.

Ethyl lactate exemplifies how sustainable chemistry can meet industrial demands without compromising safety or performance. As regulations tighten and consumer awareness grows, its role in green manufacturing is expected to expand significantly.