Application
Triethyl Citrate (TEC) serves as a versatile compound with multiple applications across various industries. As a clear, viscous, and odorless liquid, TEC is slightly soluble in water and is primarily used as a flavoring agent in food products, including lemon drinks. In the pharmaceutical sector, it acts as a plasticizer for coatings on capsules, tablets, beads, and granules, aiding in taste masking and controlled release functions. TEC's role extends to being a high boiling solvent and plasticizer for vinyl resins and cellulose acetates, making it essential in manufacturing. It is also utilized in cosmetics and personal care products for its deodorizing and skin care benefits, functioning as a natural active ingredient and flavor component. Additionally, TEC is employed as a plasticizer and humectant for cigarette filters and is instrumental in food processing as a whipping enhancer for organic egg whites, providing stability to foams. The diverse applications of TEC underline its importance as a direct food additive, solvent, and surface-active agent across different fields.