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Acetyl tributyl citrate

PubChem CID
6505
Structure
Acetyl tributyl citrate_small.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE
  • 77-90-7
  • tributyl 2-acetoxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate
  • Acetyltributyl citrate
  • Tributyl acetylcitrate
Molecular Weight
402.5 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Dates
  • Create:
    2005-03-26
  • Modify:
    2025-01-25
Description
Acetyl tributyl citrate is an organooxygen compound. It is functionally related to a tetracarboxylic acid.
Acetyl tributyl citrate is a flavouring ingredient and plasticiser used in packaging films for food.

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Acetyl tributyl citrate.png

1.2 3D Status

Conformer generation is disallowed since too flexible

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

tributyl 2-acetyloxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/C20H34O8/c1-5-8-11-25-17(22)14-20(28-16(4)21,19(24)27-13-10-7-3)15-18(23)26-12-9-6-2/h5-15H2,1-4H3
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.3 InChIKey

QZCLKYGREBVARF-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.4 SMILES

CCCCOC(=O)CC(CC(=O)OCCCC)(C(=O)OCCCC)OC(=O)C
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

C20H34O8
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

77-90-7

2.3.2 Deprecated CAS

37070-91-0, 791812-73-2

2.3.3 European Community (EC) Number

2.3.4 UNII

2.3.5 ChEBI ID

2.3.6 ChEMBL ID

2.3.7 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.8 FEMA Number

2.3.9 HMDB ID

2.3.10 JECFA Number

630

2.3.11 Metabolomics Workbench ID

2.3.12 NCI Thesaurus Code

2.3.13 Nikkaji Number

2.3.14 NSC Number

2.3.15 RXCUI

2.3.16 Wikidata

2.3.17 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • 2-acetyltributylcitrate
  • acetyl tributyl citrate
  • acetyltributylcitrate
  • ATBC plasticizer

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
402.5 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
XLogP3-AA
Property Value
3.3
Reference
Computed by XLogP3 3.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
8
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
19
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
402.22536804 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
402.22536804 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
105 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
28
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
476
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2021.10.14)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Other Solid; Liquid; Pellets or Large Crystals
Colorless liquid with a mild sweet odor; [HSDB]
Liquid
colourless, slightly viscous liquid with very faint sweet herbaceous odour

3.2.2 Color / Form

Colorless liquid
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 15

3.2.3 Odor

Very faint sweet, herbaceous odor
Burdock, G.A. (ed.). Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. 5th ed.Boca Raton, FL 2005, p. 1817
Odorless
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 15

3.2.4 Taste

At high levels (e.g., 1000 ppm emulsion in water) it has a mild, fruity, non-descript flavor.
Burdock, G.A. (ed.). Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. 5th ed.Boca Raton, FL 2005, p. 1817

3.2.5 Boiling Point

331 °C at 732 mm Hg
Oxea; OXBLUE ATBC, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (CAS 77-90-7); Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.phthalate-free-plasticizers.com/acetyltributylcitrate-atbc.html
Boiling Point: 326 °C (purity not stated)
US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2
172.00 to 173.00 °C. @ 1.00 mm Hg
The Good Scents Company Information System

3.2.6 Melting Point

-80 °C
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 12th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2012., p. 70

3.2.7 Flash Point

204 °C
113 °C - closed cup
GuideChem Safety Data Sheet: Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Available from, as of December 11, 2015: https://www.guidechem.com/msds/77-90-7.html

3.2.8 Solubility

In water, 5 mg/L, temp not specified
Chemicals Inspection and Testing Institute; Biodegradation and Bioaccumulation Data of Existing Chemicals Based on the CSCL Japan. Japan Chem Indus Ecol- Toxicol Informat Center. ISBN 4-89074-101-1 (1992)
In water, 4.49 mg/L at 20 °C
Oxea; OXBLUE ATBC, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (CAS 77-90-7); Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.phthalate-free-plasticizers.com/acetyltributylcitrate-atbc.html
In water, 1.7 mg/L at 25 °C
Yalkowsky, S.H., He, Yan, Jain, P. Handbook of Aqueous Solubility Data Second Edition. CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 1239
Soluble in organic solvents
David RM et al; Esters of Mono-, Di-, and Tricarboxylic Acids. Patty's Toxicology. 6th ed. (1999-2015). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. On-line Posting Date: Aug 17, 2012.
0.005 mg/mL
insoluble in water; soulble in alcohol; miscible in oil

3.2.9 Density

1.046 at 25 °C
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 15
Distillation range: 172-174 °C (1 mm Hg); bulk density= 8.74 lb/gal (25 °C); combustible
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 15
1.045-1.055

3.2.10 Vapor Density

14.1 (Air = 1; 20 °C)
Oxea; OXBLUE ATBC, Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (CAS 77-90-7); Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.phthalate-free-plasticizers.com/acetyltributylcitrate-atbc.html

3.2.11 Vapor Pressure

0.00000455 [mmHg]
VP: 1 mm Hg at 173 °C
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 95th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2014-2015, p. 3-518

3.2.12 LogP

log Kow = 4.92
US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2

3.2.13 Henry's Law Constant

Henry's Law constant = 3.8X10-10 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C /Estimated/
US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver.3.11. June 10, 2003. Available from, as of Oct 27, 2004: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm

3.2.14 Stability / Shelf Life

Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

3.2.15 Decomposition

When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating vapors.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3512

3.2.16 Viscosity

42.7 cPs at 25 °C
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 15

3.2.17 Odor Threshold

Odor perception threshold is 50 mg/L.
Sheftel, V.O.; Indirect Food Additives and Polymers. Migration and Toxicology. Lewis Publishers, Boca Raton, FL. 2000., p. 193

3.2.18 Refractive Index

Index of refraction= 1.4408 at 25 °C
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 15
1.440-1.445

3.2.19 Collision Cross Section

205.77 Ų [M+Na]+

199.82 Ų [M+H]+

291.52 Ų [2M+Na]+

S79 | UACCSCEC | Collision Cross Section (CCS) Library from UAntwerp | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.4704648

3.2.20 Kovats Retention Index

Standard non-polar
2253 , 2224 , 2253 , 2253 , 2224
Semi-standard non-polar
2250 , 2254 , 2221.2

3.2.21 Other Experimental Properties

When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 12th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2012., p. 70
Hydroxyl radical reaction rate constant = 1.4X10-11 cu cm/molec-sec at 25 °C /Estimated/
US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver.3.11. June 10, 2003. Available from, as of Oct 27, 2004: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm

3.3 Chemical Classes

Other Classes -> Esters, Other

3.3.1 Cosmetics

Cosmetic ingredients (Acetyl Tributyl Citrate) -> CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review)
Film forming; Plasticiser
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118

3.3.2 Endocrine Disruptors

Potential endocrine disrupting compound
S109 | PARCEDC | List of 7074 potential endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) by PARC T4.2 | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.10944198

3.3.3 Food Additives

FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT -> FDA Substance added to food

3.3.4 Fragrances

Fragrance Ingredient (Tributyl acetylcitrate) -> IFRA transparency List

3.3.5 Plasticizers

Plasticizers
S79 | UACCSCEC | Collision Cross Section (CCS) Library from UAntwerp | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.4704648
Plasticizer
S120 | DUSTCT2024 | Substances from Second NORMAN Collaborative Dust Trial | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.13835254
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139

3.3.6 Polymers

Plastics -> PUR; PVC (soft)
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139
Plastics -> Plasticisers
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139

4 Spectral Information

4.1 1D NMR Spectra

1D NMR Spectra
NMR: 10977 (Sadtler Research Laboratories Spectral Collection)

4.1.1 1H NMR Spectra

1 of 3
View All
Spectra ID
Instrument Type
JEOL
Frequency
90 MHz
Solvent
CDCl3
Shifts [ppm]:Intensity
1.31:39.00, 4.23:55.00, 4.16:244.00, 1.44:65.00, 4.02:138.00, 1.40:73.00, 1.69:51.00, 1.30:31.00, 1.26:61.00, 1.55:104.00, 0.92:142.00, 1.49:109.00, 0.83:41.00, 1.33:75.00, 1.36:72.00, 1.51:66.00, 1.71:39.00, 1.67:43.00, 3.26:275.00, 1.41:65.00, 0.93:439.00, 2.06:1000.00, 1.42:78.00, 0.86:67.00, 1.29:31.00, 3.24:289.00, 0.85:91.00, 1.65:58.00, 0.96:36.00, 1.62:92.00, 1.31:38.00, 1.58:63.00, 1.71:37.00, 4.09:350.00, 1.53:85.00, 1.59:68.00, 1.01:210.00
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2 of 3
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Instrument Name
BRUKER AC-300
Source of Sample
Tokyo Kasei Kogyo Company, Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
Copyright
Copyright © 1991-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.1.2 13C NMR Spectra

1 of 3
View All
Spectra ID
Instrument Type
Varian
Frequency
25.16 MHz
Solvent
CDCl3
Shifts [ppm]:Intensity
30.39:323.00, 13.67:806.00, 20.94:214.00, 19.13:1000.00, 30.66:677.00, 168.97:985.00, 78.25:468.00, 38.76:493.00, 64.70:672.00, 65.92:333.00, 169.44:781.00
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2 of 3
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Source of Sample
Chas. Pfizer & Company, Inc., New York, New York
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.2 Mass Spectrometry

4.2.1 GC-MS

1 of 14
View All
Spectra ID
Instrument Type
CI-B
Ionization Mode
positive
Top 5 Peaks

403.0 99.99

329.0 95.56

361.0 30.82

269.0 26.60

259.0 26.25

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Notes
instrument=Unknown
2 of 14
View All
Authors
Chrysoula Kanakaki, Nikiforos Alygizakis, Nikolaos Thomaidis, University of Athens
Instrument
Bruker 450 GC coupled to maXis Impact
Instrument Type
GC-APCI-QTOF
MS Level
MS2
Ionization Mode
POSITIVE
Ionization
APCI
Collision Energy
10 eV
Fragmentation Mode
CID
Column Name
Rxi-5Sil MS column, 30m, 0.25mm i.d., 0.25µm film thickness, Restek
Retention Time
21.182 min
Precursor m/z
403.2326
Precursor Adduct
[M+H]+
Top 5 Peaks

329.159 999

273.0957 758

259.1527 728

213.0759 519

217.0349 500

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License
CC BY

4.2.2 MS-MS

1 of 6
View All
Spectra ID
Ionization Mode
Positive
Top 5 Peaks

68.9971 100

129.0184 38.08

111.0078 29.50

139.0028 17.03

57.0699 13.83

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2 of 6
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Spectra ID
Ionization Mode
Positive
Top 5 Peaks

68.9971 100

111.0077 9.41

57.07 6.75

129.0182 6.05

87.0077 4.58

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4.2.3 LC-MS

1 of 33
View All
Authors
Belova L, Covaci A, University of Antwerp, Belgium; Caballero-Casero N, University of Cordoba, Spain.
Instrument
Agilent 6560 QTOF
Instrument Type
LC-ESI-QTOF
MS Level
MS2
Ionization Mode
POSITIVE
Ionization
ESI
Collision Energy
5 eV
Fragmentation Mode
CID
Retention Time
0.110 min
Precursor m/z
403.2326
Precursor Adduct
[M+H]+
Top 5 Peaks

129.0182 999

185.0804 929

157.013 735

139.0021 643

259.1534 635

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License
CC BY
2 of 33
View All
Authors
Belova L, Covaci A, University of Antwerp, Belgium; Caballero-Casero N, University of Cordoba, Spain.
Instrument
Agilent 6560 QTOF
Instrument Type
LC-ESI-QTOF
MS Level
MS2
Ionization Mode
POSITIVE
Ionization
ESI
Collision Energy
10 eV
Fragmentation Mode
CID
Retention Time
0.110 min
Precursor m/z
403.2326
Precursor Adduct
[M+H]+
Top 5 Peaks

129.0181 999

185.0806 869

139.0022 569

157.013 477

259.1535 282

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License
CC BY

4.2.4 Other MS

1 of 2
Other MS
MASS: 107140 (NIST/EPA/MSDC Mass Spectral Database, 1990 version)
2 of 2
Authors
MASS SPECTROSCOPY SOC. OF JAPAN (MSSJ)
Instrument
Unknown
Instrument Type
CI-B
MS Level
MS
Ionization Mode
POSITIVE
Top 5 Peaks

403 999

329 956

361 308

269 266

259 263

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License
CC BY-NC-SA

4.3 IR Spectra

IR Spectra
IR: 6398 (Sadtler Research Laboratories Prism Collection)

4.3.1 FTIR Spectra

1 of 2
Technique
BETWEEN SALTS
Source of Sample
Charles Pfizer & Company, Inc., New York, New York
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Technique
NEAT
Source of Sample
Unitex Chemical Corporation
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.3.2 ATR-IR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
Bio-Rad FTS
Technique
ATR-Neat (DurasamplIR II)
Source of Spectrum
Forensic Spectral Research
Source of Sample
Scientific Polymer Products, Inc.
Catalog Number
P-107
Lot Number
080704001
Copyright
Copyright © 2012-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Instrument Name
Bruker Tensor 27 FT-IR
Technique
ATR-Neat (DuraSamplIR II)
Source of Spectrum
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
Source of Sample
TCI Chemicals India Pvt. Ltd.
Catalog Number
A0822
Copyright
Copyright © 2016-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.3.3 Vapor Phase IR Spectra

Instrument Name
DIGILAB FTS-14
Technique
Vapor Phase
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.4 Raman Spectra

Instrument Name
Bruker MultiRAM Stand Alone FT-Raman Spectrometer
Technique
FT-Raman
Source of Spectrum
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
Source of Sample
TCI Chemicals India Pvt. Ltd.
Catalog Number
A0822
Lot Number
USBNC
Copyright
Copyright © 2016-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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6 Chemical Vendors

7 Food Additives and Ingredients

7.1 Food Additive Classes

Flavoring Agents
JECFA Functional Classes
Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENT;

7.2 FEMA Flavor Profile

Floral

7.3 FDA Substances Added to Food

Used for (Technical Effect)
FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT
FEMA Number
3080
GRAS Number
3
JECFA Flavor Number
630

7.4 Evaluations of the Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives - JECFA

1 of 2
Chemical Name
ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE
Evaluation Year
1999
ADI
No safety concern at current levels of intake when used as a flavouring agent
Tox Monograph
2 of 2
Chemical Name
TRIBUTYL ACETYLCITRATE
Evaluation Year
1999
ADI
No safety concern at current levels of intake when used as a flavouring agent
Tox Monograph

8 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

8.1 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

The metabolism of acetyl tributyl citrate was evaluated using groups of male rats (number of animals, weights, and strain not stated). Each animal received a single oral dose of 14C-acetyl tributyl citrate (dose not stated). At 48 hr post dosing, approximately 99% of the administered dose had been excreted either in urine (59% to 70%), feces (25% to 36%), or in the expired air (2%). Only 0.36% to 1.26% of the dose remained in the tissues or carcass.
Johnson W; International Journal of Toxicology 21 (Suppl.2): 1-17 (2002)

8.2 Metabolism / Metabolites

The metabolism of acetyl tributyl citrate was evaluated using groups of male rats (number of animals, weights, and strain not stated). ... Both the absorption and metabolism of 14C-Acetyl tributyl Citrate proceeded rapidly, and the following metabolites were identified: acetyl citrate, monobutyl citrate, acetyl monobutyl citrate, dibutyl citrate, and acetyl dibutyl citrate.
Johnson W; International Journal of Toxicology 21 (Suppl.2): 1-17 (2002)

8.3 Human Metabolite Information

8.3.1 Cellular Locations

Membrane

8.4 Transformations

9 Use and Manufacturing

9.1 Uses

Cosmetic Ingredient Review Link
CIR ingredient: Acetyl Tributyl Citrate
EPA CPDat Chemical and Product Categories
The Chemical and Products Database, a resource for exposure-relevant data on chemicals in consumer products, Scientific Data, volume 5, Article number: 180125 (2018), DOI:10.1038/sdata.2018.125
Sources/Uses
Used as a flavoring agent and plasticizer for vinyl resins, rubber, and cellulosic resins; Also used to make resinous and polymeric coatings and paper/paperboard for use in contact with food; [HSDB]
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure
Pulp and Paper Processing [Category: Industry]
Plasticizer for vinyl resins
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 15
Plasticizer (rubber, cellulosic resins)
Ashford, R.D. Ashford's Dictionary of Industrial Chemicals. London, England: Wavelength Publications Ltd., 1994., p. 902
... Use in the production of food-contact surfaces of resinous and polymeric coatings and in paper/paperboard for use in contact with fatty foods.
Sheftel, V.O.; Indirect Food Additives and Polymers. Migration and Toxicology. Lewis Publishers, Boca Raton, FL. 2000., p. 193
... /the most widely used phtahalate substitute plasticizer/ widely used in products such as food wrap, vinyl toys, and pharmaceutical excipients ...
Takeshita A et al; Toxicol Sci 123 (2): 460-70 (2011)
For more Uses (Complete) data for ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.
Plastics -> Typical concentration range in plastic materials -> 10.0 - 35.0%
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139

9.1.1 Use Classification

Food additives -> Flavoring Agents
Fragrance Ingredients
Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENT; -> JECFA Functional Classes
Flavoring Agents -> JECFA Flavorings Index
Plastics -> Polymer Type -> PUR; PVC (soft)
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139
Plastics -> Plasticisers
S47 | ECHAPLASTICS | A list from the Plastic Additives Initiative Mapping Exercise by ECHA | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2658139
Cosmetics -> Film forming; Plasticiser
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118

9.1.2 Industry Uses

  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • Paint additives and coating additives not described by other categories
  • Agricultural chemicals (non-pesticidal)
  • Plasticizer
  • Plasticizers
  • Other (specify)
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable

9.1.3 Consumer Uses

  • Plasticizers
  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • Paint additives and coating additives not described by other categories
  • Agricultural chemicals (non-pesticidal)
  • Plasticizer

9.1.4 Household Products

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 23 consumer products that contain Acetyl tributyl citrate in the following categories is provided:

• Inside the Home

• Personal Care

• Pesticides

9.2 Methods of Manufacturing

From citric acid via the tributyl ester followed by acetylation.
Burdock, G.A. (ed.). Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. 6th ed.Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 1927

9.3 Formulations / Preparations

Grade: Technical
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 15

9.4 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 1,000,000 - <10,000,000 lb

2018: 1,000,000 - <10,000,000 lb

2017: 1,000,000 - <10,000,000 lb

2016: 1,000,000 - <10,000,000 lb

(1976) GREATER THAN 2X10+6 GRAMS
SRI
1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, tributyl ester is listed as a High Production Volume (HPV) chemical (65FR81686). Chemicals listed as HPV were produced in or imported into the U.S. in >1 million pounds in 1990 and/or 1994. The HPV list is based on the 1990 Inventory Update Rule. (IUR) (40 CFR part 710 subpart B; 51FR21438).
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program. 1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, tributyl ester (77-90-7). Available from, as of June 30, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/general/opptsrch.htm
Non-confidential 2012 Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) information on the production and use of chemicals manufactured or imported into the United States. Chemical: 1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, 1,2,3-tributyl ester. National Production Volume: 4,669,244 lb/yr.
USEPA/Pollution Prevention and Toxics; 2012 Chemical Data Reporting Database. 1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, 1,2,3-tributyl ester (77-90-7). Available from, as of June 30, 2015: https://java.epa.gov/oppt_chemical_search/

9.5 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
  • Construction
  • All Other Chemical Product and Preparation Manufacturing
  • Custom Compounding of Purchased Resins
  • Plastics Material and Resin Manufacturing
  • Plastics Product Manufacturing
  • Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing
  • Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
  • Paint and Coating Manufacturing
  • Miscellaneous Manufacturing
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, 1,2,3-tributyl ester: ACTIVE

10 Safety and Hazards

10.1 Hazards Identification

10.1.1 GHS Classification

Note
This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 98.6% (2132 of 2162) of all reports. Pictograms displayed are for 1.4% (30 of 2162) of reports that indicate hazard statements.
GHS Hazard Statements

Not Classified

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria by 2132 of 2162 companies (only 1.4% companies provided GHS information). For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 2162 reports by companies from 10 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 2132 of 2162 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There are 8 notifications provided by 30 of 2162 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown.

10.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Not Classified

10.1.3 Hazards Summary

Emergency treatment: Irritants; No observations of skin irritation or sensitization in study with 59 volunteers; Intravenous dosing of cats and rabbits caused dose-related drop in blood pressure (found to be caused by cardiac inhibition); Other effects noted in high-dose animal studies by different exposure routes include decreased weight gain, decreased hemoglobin (no indication of aplastic anemia in bone marrow smears), and neurological effects (i.e. local anesthesia and blockage of neural transmission); No evidence of mutagenicity and limited evidence of cytotoxicity; [HSDB] Causes somnolence in lethal-dose feeding studies of rats; [RTECS] Safe to use as a flavoring agent in food; [JECFA]

10.2 Fire Fighting

10.2.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

10.3 Accidental Release Measures

10.3.1 Cleanup Methods

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures. Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Environmental precautions: Do not let product enter drains. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

10.3.2 Disposal Methods

SRP: Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.
Product Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contaminated packaging Dispose of as unused product.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

10.3.3 Preventive Measures

Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid inhalation of vapor or mist.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

10.4 Handling and Storage

10.4.1 Storage Conditions

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage. Moisture sensitive.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

10.5 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

10.5.1 Allowable Tolerances

Residues resulting from the use of the following substances as either an inert or an active ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation, including antimicrobial pesticide chemicals, are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance under FFDCA section 408, if such use is in accordance with good agricultural or manufacturing practices. Citric acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, tributyl ester is included on this list.
40 CFR 180.950(e) (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 29, 2015: https://www.ecfr.gov

10.5.2 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Skin protection: Handle with gloves.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Eye/face protection: Safety glasses with side-shields conforming to EN166 Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Respiratory protection: Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a full-face respirator with multipurpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator. Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Body Protection: Impervious clothing. The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

10.6 Stability and Reactivity

10.6.1 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

10.7 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: 1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, tributyl ester
REACH Registered Substance
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
2-Acetyltributylcitrate: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard

10.7.1 FIFRA Requirements

Residues resulting from the use of the following substances as either an inert or an active ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation, including antimicrobial pesticide chemicals, are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance under FFDCA section 408, if such use is in accordance with good agricultural or manufacturing practices. Citric acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, tributyl ester is included on this list.
40 CFR 180.950(e) (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of November 1, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov

10.7.2 FDA Requirements

Food additive permitted for direct addition to food for human consumption as a synthetic flavoring substance and adjuvant in accordance with the following conditions: a) they are used in the minimum quantity required to produce their intended effect, and otherwise in accordance with all the principles of good manufacturing practice, and b) they consist of one or more of the following, used alone or in combination with flavoring substances and adjuvants generally recognized as safe in food, prior-sanctioned for such use, or regulated by an appropriate section in this part. Tributyl acetylcitrate is included on this list.
21 CFR 172.515 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 1, 2015: https://www.ecfr.gov
Acetyl tributyl citrate is an indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives.
21 CFR 175.105 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 29, 2015: https://www.ecfr.gov
Prior-sanctioned food ingredients. Substances classified as plasticizers, when migrating from food packaging material. Acetyl tributyl citrate is included on this list.
21 CFR 181.27 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 29, 2015: https://www.ecfr.gov

10.8 Other Safety Information

Chemical Assessment
IMAP assessments - 1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, tributyl ester: Human health tier I assessment

10.8.1 Toxic Combustion Products

Carbon oxides
Sigma-Aldrich; Safety Data Sheet for Tributyl O-acetylcitrate. Product Number: 388378, Version 5.3 (Revision Date 07/01/2014). Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

10.8.2 Special Reports

The U.S. high production volume (HPV) chemicals are those which are manufactured in or imported into the United States in amounts equal to or greater than one million pounds per year. Robust Summaries include health effects, ecotoxicity data, and environmental fate information for selected chemicals. EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program's Robust Summaries and Test Plans.[Available from, as of November 28, 2015: http://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/hpvrstp.htm]

11 Toxicity

11.1 Toxicological Information

11.1.1 Toxicity Summary

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC) is a colorless liquid. It is the most widely used phthalate substitute plasticizer. It is used in products such as food wrap, vinyl toys, and pharmaceutical excipients. It is also used as a flavor ingredient in non-alcoholic beverages. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: The skin irritation potential of acetyl tributyl citrate was evaluated using 59 men and women, all of whom had history of diabetes, psoriasis, or active dermatoses. ATBC was nonirritating to the skin, and reactions suggestive of contact sensitization were not observed during the study. In vitro ATBC increased CYP3A4 messenger RNA (mRNA) levels and enzyme activity in the human intestinal cells but not in human liver cells. ANIMAL STUDIES: Acute oral toxicity of ATBC in cats and rats is low. CYP3A1 mRNA levels were increased in the intestine but not the liver of ATBC-treated rats. In a 90-day repeated-dose oral dietary study in rats, decreased body weight and organ weight changes were observed at 1000 mg/kg-bw/day. In a combined repeated dose/reproductive/developmental toxicity study in rats, organ weight and histopathological changes were observed in adults at 1000 mg/kg-bw/day. In a 2-generation reproductive toxicity study in rats, reduced body weight was observed in F1 males at 300 mg/kg-bw/day. In the same study, no other treatment related effects were observed. In the combined repeated dose/reproductive/developmental toxicity study in rats previously described, histopathological changes were observed in the liver of adult males at 300 mg/kg-bw/day. In the same study, decreased litter size and decreased number of implantations were observed at 1000 mg/kg-bw/day. ATBC did not induce gene mutations in bacteria or mammalian cells in vitro and did not induce chromosomal aberrations in mammalian cells in vitro. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: For acetyl tributyl citrate, the 96-hr LC50 values for fish range from 38 to 60 mg/L, the 48-hr EC50 value for aquatic invertebrates is 7.8 mg/L and the 72-hr EC50 values for aquatic plants are 11.5 mg/L for biomass and 74.4mg/L for growth rate, respectively.

11.1.2 Carcinogen Classification

Carcinogen Classification
No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).

11.1.3 Adverse Effects

Neurotoxin - Other CNS neurotoxin

11.1.4 Acute Effects

11.1.5 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

/SRP:/ Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on the left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Poisons A and B/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 160
/SRP:/ Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if needed. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Poisons A and B/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 160
/SRP:/ Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W TKO /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Poisons A and B/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 160-1

11.1.6 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ The skin irritation potential of acetyl tributyl citrate was evaluated using 59 men and women (age range = 21-60 years), all of whom had history of diabetes, psoriasis, or active dermatoses. ... Occlusive patches moistened with 0.4 mL of acetyl tributyl citrate were applied to the upper arm of each subject on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for 3 consecutive weeks. Each patch was removed 24 hours post application. Induction reactions were scored prior to patch applications (second through ninth visits) and at the time of the tenth visit. Duplicate challenge of the test material was made after a two-week non-treatment period. ... One challenge patch was applied to the original test site, and , another, to an adjacent site. Challenge reactions were scored at 48 and 96 hours post application. /Acetyl tributyl citrate/ was nonirritating to the skin, and reactions suggestive of contact sensitization were not observed during the study.
Johnson W; International Journal of Toxicology 21 (Suppl.2): 1-17 (2002)
/ALTERNATIVE and IN VITRO TESTS/ The cytotoxicity of acetyl-tributyl-citrate and dibutyl-sebacate was studied in cultured mammalian cells. The impetus for the study was a report that acetyl-tributyl-citrate and dibutyl-sebacate, which were plasticizers found in polyvinylidene-chloride film used for packaging food, could leach out and diffuse into the foods. Human KB cells, monkey Vero cells, and canine MDCK cells were incubated with acetyl-tributyl-citrate or dibutyl sebacate over a range of concentrations for 72 hours. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by determining the extent of growth inhibition. Doses of acetyl-tributyl-citrate and dibutyl-sebacate that inhibited growth by 50% were calculated from the data. Both compounds inhibited the growth of all cells in a dose dependent manner. The inhibited growth by 50% of acetyl-tributyl-citrate in the various types were: 44.7 ug/mL in KB cells; 39.9 ug/mL in Vero cells; and 42.1 ug/mL in MDCK cells. The inhibited growth by 50% of dibutyl-sebacate in these cells were: KB cells, 1,549 ug/mL; Vero cells, 1,510 ug/mL; and MDCK cells, 1,549 ug/mL. /It was/ concluded that when comparing the results of this study with those obtained previously using tricresyl-phosphate,triphenyl-phosphate (TPP), butylated-hydroxyanisole, and butylated-hydroxytoluene in human KB cells, acetyl-tributyl-citrate is more toxic than TCP and more toxic than TPP. Acetyl-tributyl-citrate is less toxic than BHA, but shows toxicity similar to that of BHT. DBS is much less toxic than either BHT or BHA. KB, Vero, and MDCK cells show similar sensitivity to acetyl-tributyl-citrate and DBS.
Mochida K et al; Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 56 (4): 635-7 (1996)
/ALTERNATIVE and IN VITRO TESTS/ The in vitro cytotoxicity of acetyl tributyl citrate in HeLa cell cultures (human cell line) was evaluated using the metabolic inhibition test, supplemented by microscopy of cells after 24 hours of incubation (the MIT-24 test system). ... After 24 hours, cell viability was determined by microscopy. Two endpoints of cytoinhibition (total and partial inhibition) were estimated after 24 hours, based on the absence or scarcity of spindle-shaped cells, and, after 7 days.... The following values for minimal inhibitory concentration were reported for acetyl tributyl citrate: 13 mg/mL (for total inhibition at 24 hours), 3.8 mg/mL (for partial inhibition at 24 hours), and 5.7 mg/mL (for total and partial inhibition at 7 days). Acetyl tributyl citrate caused little toxicity in HeLa cell cultures.
Johnson W; International Journal of Toxicology 21 (Suppl.2): 1-17 (2002)
/ALTERNATIVE and IN VITRO TESTS/ The effects of polyvinyl-chloride (PVC) tubing extracts were investigated in isolated ileum of guinea-pigs. Ileum were isolated and mounted in tissue baths. Tubing ingredients from PVC or tubing extracts of the plasticizer acetyl-N-tributyl-citrate (ATBC) were added to the bath for 15 minutes. Contractions or modifications of methacholine responses were measured. ...A significant and characteristic effect was seen for ATBC in ileum, consisting of rapid contractions and relaxations which were dependent on concentrations. The spasms were unaffected by tetrodotoxin. No spasmogenic effect was seen for ATBC in human small intestine or colon. None of the other tubing ingredients had any spasmogenic action, including PVC extracts. No methacholine contractions occurred with the other ingredients. Tubing extracts containing ATBC produced spasms similar to chemical ATBC.
Hollingsworth M; J Biomed Mat Res 9 (6): 687-97 (1975)
/ALTERNATIVE and IN VITRO TESTS/ Steroid and xenobiotic receptor (SXR) is activated by endogenous and exogenous chemicals including steroids, bile acids, and prescription drugs. SXR is highly expressed in the liver and intestine, where it regulates cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), which in turn controls xenobiotic and endogenous steroid hormone metabolism. However, it is unclear whether Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved plasticizers exert such activity. ...We found that four of eight FDA-approved plasticizers increased SXR-mediated transcription. In particular, acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC), an industrial plasticizer widely used in products such as food wrap, vinyl toys, and pharmaceutical excipients, strongly activated human and rat SXR. ATBC increased CYP3A4 messenger RNA (mRNA) levels and enzyme activity in the human intestinal cells but not in human liver cells.
Takeshita A et al; Toxicol Sci 123 (2): 460-70 (2011)

11.1.7 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The intravenous administration of acetyl tributyl citrate to cats and rabbits induced a dose-related decrease in blood pressure. /Acetyl tributyl citrate/ caused complete loss of blood pressure when administered in toxic doses. The results of experiments conducted on the isolated rabbit heart indicate that this effect on blood pressure was due to cardiac inhibition.
Johnson W; International Journal of Toxicology 21 (Suppl.2): 1-17 (2002)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ In both rats and cats ... single oral doses of 10-30 mL/kg of tributyl acetylcitrate did not produce marked effects on the animals.
Lefaux, R. Practical Toxicology of Plastics. Cleveland: CRC Press Inc., 1968., p. 369
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The acute oral toxicity of Acetyl tributyl citrate was evaluated using five rats (strain and weight not stated). The test substance was administered at doses ranging from 10 to 30 mL/kg, and animals were observed for 3 weeks. Signs of systemic toxicity were not observed, and none of the animals died.
Johnson W; International Journal of Toxicology 21 (Suppl.2): 1-17 (2002)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ A single dose of acetyl tributyl citrate (30 to 50 mL/kg) was administered by stomach tube to each of four fasted cats (weights not stated), and animals were observed for 2 months. Two additional cats served as controls. Signs of nausea were observed in test animals, and, within a few hours of dosing, diarrhea (oozing of oily material) was noted. The diarrhea subsided within 24 hours of dosing. The behavior and general appearance of animals indicated systemic toxicity. Two cats dosed with 50 mL/kg were used for hematological evaluations and no effects on the following blood parameters were found: blood cell counts, hemoglobin, sugar, nonprotein nitrogen, or creatinine. Results from urinalyses indicate no abnormalities in specific gravity, albumin, sugar, pH, or microscopic formed elements.
Johnson W; International Journal of Toxicology 21 (Suppl.2): 1-17 (2002)
For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ACETYL TRIBUTYL CITRATE (23 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.1.8 Non-Human Toxicity Values

LD50 Rat oral 31.4 g/kg
Sheftel, V.O.; Indirect Food Additives and Polymers. Migration and Toxicology. Lewis Publishers, Boca Raton, FL. 2000., p. 193
LD50 Mouse ip >4 g/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3512
LD50 Cat oral >50 mL/kg
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program's Robust Summaries and Test Plans. Acetyltributyl Citrate. Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/hpvrstp.htm

11.1.9 Ongoing Test Status

EPA has released the first beta version (version 0.5) of the Interactive Chemical Safety for Sustainability (iCSS) Dashboard. The beta version of the iCSS Dashboard provides an interactive tool to explore rapid, automated (or in vitro high-throughput) chemical screening data generated by the Toxicity Forecaster (ToxCast) project and the federal Toxicity Testing in the 21st century (Tox21) collaboration. /The title compound was tested by ToxCast and/or Tox21 assays; Click on the "Chemical Explorer" button on the tool bar to see the data./[USEPA; ICSS Dashboard Application; Available from, as of April 22, 2015: http://actor.epa.gov/dashboard/]

11.2 Ecological Information

11.2.1 Ecotoxicity Values

LC50; Species: Fundalus heteroclitus (Mummichogs) length 3.5-8.5 in; Conditions: flow through tanks delivered 4.8 volume replacements/day; the dilution water was synthetic seawater (25%); the pH ranged from 6.5-7.6; the dissolved oxygen concentration was 70-95% saturation; temperature was maintained at approximately 23-24 °C; Concentration: 59 mg/L for 96 hr.
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program's Robust Summaries and Test Plans. Acetyltributyl Citrate. Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/hpvrstp.htm
LC50; Species: Lepomis macrochirus (Bluegill sunfish); Conditions: flow through tanks delivered 4.8 volume replacements/day; the pH ranged from 6.5-7.6; the dissolved oxygen concentration was 70-95% saturation; temperature was maintained at approximately 23-24 °C; Concentration: 38-60 mg/L for 96 hr.
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program's Robust Summaries and Test Plans. Acetyltributyl Citrate. Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/hpvrstp.htm
LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow) 18-hr old larval fish; Conditions: static renewal, total hardness and alkalinity ranges of 150 mg/L and 152 mg/L as CaCO3, respectively; specific conductance of 332 uS/cm, temperature in the test solutions ranged from 24.5-25.3 °C, dissolved oxygen concentrations ranged from 7.4-8.45 in fresh solutions and 4.9-7.13 mg/L in expired solutions, pH ranged from 7.69-8.27 in fresh solutions and from 7.61-8.23 in expired solutions; Concentration: 3.5 mg/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 3.4-3.7 mg/L), 2.8 mg/L for 48 hr (95% confidence interval: 2.5-3.2 mg/L), 1.9 mg/L for 7 days (95% confidence interval: 1.8-2.1 mg/L)
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program's Robust Summaries and Test Plans. Acetyltributyl Citrate. Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/hpvrstp.htm
EC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow) 18-hr old larval fish; Conditions: static renewal; total hardness and alkalinity ranges of 150 mg/L and 152 mg/L as CaCO3, respectively; specific conductance of 332 uS/cm; temperature in the test solutions ranged from 24.5-25.3 °C; dissolved oxygen concentrations ranged from 7.4-8.45 in fresh solutions and 4.9-7.13 mg/L in expired solutions; pH ranged from 7.69-8.27 in fresh solutions and from 7.61-8.23 in expired solutions; Concentration: 1.4 mg/L for 7 days (95% confidence interval: 0.72-2.7 mg/L); Effect: reduced growth
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program's Robust Summaries and Test Plans. Acetyltributyl Citrate. Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/hpvrstp.htm
EC50; Species: Ceriodaphnia dubia (Water flea); Conditions: static, temperature was maintained at 25+/-2 °C, dissolved oxygen concentrations ranged from 6.99-8.03 mg/L, pH ranged from 7.46-8.34, hardness was 154 mg/L as CaCO3, alkalinity was 156 mg/L as CaCO3, and conductivity was 337 uS/cm; Concentration: 7.82 mg/L for 48 hr; Effect: percent immobilization
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program's Robust Summaries and Test Plans. Acetyltributyl Citrate. Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/hpvrstp.htm

11.2.2 Ecotoxicity Excerpts

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The study measured the acute toxicity of the test substance to locally obtained bluegill sunfish during a 96-hr exposure period in flow-through systems. Fish were acclimated to laboratory conditions for >1 month before use in this study. Following 96-hr exposure, observation for mortality and behavioral effects were monitored for an additional 96 hours. Experimental conditions during this study were as follows: flow through tanks delivered 4.8 volume replacements/day; the pH ranged from 6.5-7.6; the dissolved oxygen concentration was 70-95% saturation; temperature was maintained at approximately 23-24 °C; and fish were not fed during the first 96 hours of an extended exposure period. ...The fish exposed to low concentrations of the test substance appeared to be more excitable than usual, while activity was greatly reduced in fish exposed to the higher concentrations. Loss of equilibrium was observed and, at higher concentrations, a marked loss of equilibrium and fine fin movements was observed. Gill motion was irregular and shallow. All fish reportedly recovered from treatment-related effects within 48 hours of cessation of exposure to the test substance.
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program's Robust Summaries and Test Plans. Acetyltributyl Citrate. Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/hpvrstp.htm
/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The study measured the acute toxicity of the test substance to locally obtained mummichogs during a 96-hr exposure period in flow-through tanks. Fish were acclimated to laboratory conditions for several weeks before use in this study. Following 96-hr exposure, observation for mortality and behavioral effects were monitored for an additional 96 hours. Experimental conditions during this study were as follows: flow through tanks delivered 4.8 volume replacements/day; the dilution water was synthetic seawater (25%); the pH ranged from 6.5-7.6; the dissolved oxygen concentration was 70-95% saturation; temperature was maintained at approximately 23-24 °C; and fish were not fed during the first 96 hours of an extended exposure period. Mummichogs were 3.5-8.5 inches in length. ...Behavioral effects were observed in fish exposed to 50 mg/L of the test substance in <48 hours. Some survival was seen at 100 mg/L after 96 hours of exposure. The fish exposed to low concentrations of the test substance appeared to be more excitable than usual, while activity was greatly reduced in fish exposed to the higher concentrations. Loss of equilibrium was observed and, at higher concentrations, a marked loss of equilibrium and fine fin movements (especially pectoral fins) was observed. Gill motion was irregular and shallow. ... Two severely affected fish were transferred from test solutions to fresh water, one of which fully recovered from exposure to a 120 mg/L test solution for 7.5 hours and the other recovered from exposure to an 80 mg/L test solution after 24 hours. All surviving fish reportedly recovered from treatment-related effects within 48 hours of cessation of exposure to the test substance. /Citroflex-A4 (O-acetyl-tributyl citrate)/
EPA/Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program's Robust Summaries and Test Plans. Acetyltributyl Citrate. Available from, as of May 28, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/hpv/pubs/hpvrstp.htm

11.2.3 Environmental Fate / Exposure Summary

Acetyl tributyl citrate's production and use as a plasticizer for vinyl and other resins, as a solvent and functional fluid in adhesives, paints, coating and inks and as a flavor ingredient may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, an estimated vapor pressure of 3X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates acetyl tributyl citrate will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase acetyl tributyl citrate will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 27 hours. Particulate-phase acetyl tributyl citrate will be removed from the atmosphere by wet and dry deposition. If released to soil, acetyl tributyl citrate is expected to have slight mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 3,280. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.2X10-5 atm-cu m/mole. However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization. Acetyl tributyl citrate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its estimated vapor pressure. Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 82% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 4 weeks indicating that biodegradation is an important environmental fate process in soil and water. Two soil degradation studies observed rapid biomineralization of acetyl tributyl citrate. If released into water, acetyl tributyl citrate is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Acetyl tributyl citrate has been shown to biodegrade extensively in several other biodegradation studies and simulation tests. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2.6 and 25 days, respectively. However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 335 days if adsorption is considered. An estimated BCF of 35 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate. Estimated hydrolysis half-lives of 3.8 years and 140 days were determined for pH 7 and 8, respectively. Occupational exposure to acetyl tributyl citrate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where acetyl tributyl citrate is produced or used. Use data indicate that the general population may be exposed to acetyl tributyl citrate via ingestion of food containing this compound, and dermal contact with consumer products (such as cosmetic, paints and inks) containing acetyl tributyl citrate. (SRC)

11.2.4 Natural Pollution Sources

Acetyl tributyl citrate is not reported as found in nature.
Burdock, G.A. (ed.). Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. 5th ed.Boca Raton, FL 2005, p. 1818

11.2.5 Artificial Pollution Sources

Acetyl tributyl citrate's production and use as a plasticizer for vinyl and other resin(1,2), as a solvent and functional fluid in adhesives, paints, coating and inks(2) as a flavor ingredient(3) and in nail enamel(4) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).
(1) Lewis RJ Sr; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY, p. 15 (2007)
(2) US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2
(3) Burdock GA, ed; Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. 5th ed.Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, pp. 1817-1818 (2004)
(4) National Library of Medicine Household Products Database. Available from, as of Jun 23, 2015: https://hpd.nlm.nih.gov/

11.2.6 Environmental Fate

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 3280(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 4.90(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that acetyl tributyl citrate is expected to have slight mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of acetyl tributyl citrate from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.2X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its estimated vapor pressure, 3X10-4 mm Hg(3), and water solubility, 5 mg/L(4). However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization(SRC). Acetyl tributyl citrate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its estimated vapor pressure of 3X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(3). An 82% of theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test(5) suggests that biodegradation is an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC). Acetyl tributyl citrate was shown to biodegrade extensively in several other biodegradation studies and simulation tests(6,7). Two soil degradation studies observed rapid biomineralization of acetyl tributyl citrate(7).
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2
(3) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm
(4) Chemicals Inspection and Testing Institute; Biodegradation and Bioaccumulation Data of Existing Chemicals Based on the CSCL Japan. Japan Chem Indus Ecol- Toxicol Informat Center. ISBN 4-89074-101-1 (1992)
(5) NITE; Chemical Risk Information Platform (CHRIP). Biodegradation and Bioconcentration. Tokyo, Japan: Natl Inst Tech Eval. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.safe.nite.go.jp/english/db.html
(6) US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2
(7) US EPA; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program. The HPV voluntary challenge chemical list. Robust summaries and test plans. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate. Washington, DC: US EPA, Off. Prevent. Pest. Tox. Subst., Pollut. Prevent. Toxics. Available from, as of June 16, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/opptintr/chemrtk/
AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 3,280(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 4.92(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that acetyl tributyl citrate is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(4) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.2X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its estimated vapor pressure, 3X10-4 mm Hg(3), and water solubility, 5 mg/L(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(4), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2.6 and 25 days, respectively(SRC). However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 335 days if adsorption is considered(6). According to a classification scheme(7), an estimated BCF of 35(SRC), from its log Kow and a regression-derived equation(3) suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate. An 82% of theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test(8) suggests that biodegradation is an important environmental fate process in water(SRC). Acetyl tributyl citrate was shown to biodegrade extensively in several other biodegradation studies and simulation tests(9,10). A base-catalyzed second-order hydrolysis rate constant of 5.8X10-2 L/mole-sec(SRC) was estimated using a structure estimation method(3); this corresponds to half-lives of 3.8 years and 140 days at pH values of 7 and 8, respectively(3). [
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2
(3) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm
(4) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 15-1 to 15-29 (1990)
(5) Chemicals Inspection and Testing Institute; Biodegradation and Bioaccumulation Data of Existing Chemicals Based on the CSCL Japan. Japan Chem Indus Ecol- Toxicol Informat Center. ISBN 4-89074-101-1 (1992)
(6) US EPA; EXAMS II Computer Simulation (1987)
(7) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)
(8) NITE; Chemical Risk Information Platform (CHRIP). Biodegradation and Bioconcentration. Tokyo, Japan: Natl Inst Tech Eval. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.safe.nite.go.jp/english/db.html
(9) US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2
(10) US EPA; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program. The HPV voluntary challenge chemical list. Robust summaries and test plans. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate. Washington, DC: US EPA, Off. Prevent. Pest. Tox. Subst., Pollut. Prevent. Toxics. Available from, as of June 16, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/opptintr/chemrtk/
ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), acetyl tributyl citrate, which has an estimated vapor pressure of 3X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(2), is expected to exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase acetyl tributyl citrate is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 27 hours(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.4X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(2). Particulate-phase acetyl tributyl citrate may be removed from the air by wet and dry deposition(SRC).
(1) Bidleman TF; Environ Sci Technol 22: 361-367 (1988)
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm

11.2.7 Environmental Biodegradation

AEROBIC: Acetyl tributyl citrate, present at an initial concentration of 30 mg/L, reached 82% of the theoretical BOD in 4 weeks with an activated sludge inoculum at 100 mg/L in the modified MITI test which classified the compound as readily biodegradable(1). Acetyl tributyl citrate was shown to biodegrade extensively in several other biodegradation studies and simulation tests(2,3). In a sewage column degradation test using acclimated sludge, acetyl tributyl citrate biodegraded >90% in hours(3). An aerobic biodegradation test in soil using a static biometer system found acetyl tributyl citrate to be readily biodegradable with theoretical CO2 evolution of 72.9% to >100% (as various concentrations) over 42 days of incubation(3). A 52-day aerobic study in soil observed rapid biodegradation with mineralization (ThCO2) of 83 to >100% over 52 days(3).
(1) NITE; Chemical Risk Information Platform (CHRIP). Biodegradation and Bioconcentration. Tokyo, Japan: Natl Inst Tech Eval. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.safe.nite.go.jp/english/db.html
(2) US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2
(3) US EPA; High Production Volume (HPV) Challenge Program. The HPV voluntary challenge chemical list. Robust summaries and test plans. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate. Washington, DC: US EPA, Off. Prevent. Pest. Tox. Subst., Pollut. Prevent. Toxics. Available from, as of June 16, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/opptintr/chemrtk/

11.2.8 Environmental Abiotic Degradation

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of acetyl tributyl citrate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.4X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 27 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). A base-catalyzed second-order hydrolysis rate constant of 5.8X10-2 L/mole-sec(SRC) was estimated using a structure estimation method(1); this corresponds to half-lives of 3.8 years and 140 days at pH values of 7 and 8, respectively(1).
(1) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm

11.2.9 Environmental Bioconcentration

An estimated BCF of 35 was calculated in fish for acetyl tributyl citrate(SRC), using a log Kow of 4.92(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate(SRC), provided the compound is not metabolized by the organism(SRC).
(1) US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm
(3) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)

11.2.10 Soil Adsorption / Mobility

The Koc of acetyl tributyl citrate is estimated as 3280(SRC), using a log Kow of 4.92(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that acetyl tributyl citrate is expected to have slight mobility in soil.
(1) US EPA; High Production Volume Information System (HPVIS). HPV Chemical Hazard Characterizations. Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (Casrn 77-90-7), September 2014. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://iaspub.epa.gov/oppthpv/hpv_hc_characterization.get_report?doctype=2
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm
(3) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)

11.2.11 Volatilization from Water / Soil

The Henry's Law constant for acetyl tributyl citrate is estimated as 3.2X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its estimated vapor pressure, 3.0X10-4 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 5 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that acetyl tributyl citrate is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 2.6 days(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 25 days(SRC). However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 335 days if adsorption is considered(4). Acetyl tributyl citrate's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur, but the rate may be attenuated by adsorption to soil(SRC). Acetyl tributyl citrate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(1).
(1) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.11. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm
(2) Chemicals Inspection and Testing Institute; Biodegradation and Bioaccumulation Data of Existing Chemicals Based on the CSCL Japan. Japan Chem Indus Ecol- Toxicol Informat Center. ISBN 4-89074-101-1 (1992)
(3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 15-1 to 15-29 (1990)
(4) US EPA; EXAMS II Computer Simulation (1987)

11.2.12 Environmental Water Concentrations

SURFACE WATER: Acetyl tributyl citrate was identified in 2 water samples taken from the River Lee, Great Britain at trace levels(1).
(1) Waggott A; Chem Water Reuse 2: 55-9 (1981)

11.2.13 Food Survey Values

Acetyl tributyl citrate is reportedly used as a flavor ingredient in nonalcoholic beverages at a concentration of 1.0 ppm(1). A monitoring study of hospital diets in Japan for plasticizers in hospital food detected acetyl tributyl citrate at levels (in one hospital) that corresponded to a daily intake of 1228 ug/day(2); the source of the acetyl tributyl citrate in the food was suspected to be cling-film wrapping or other packaging(2). Monitoring tests determined that acetyl tributyl citrate plasticizer in plastic films migrated from the film into cooked poultry meat during microwave cooking(3).
(1) Burdock GA, ed; Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients. 5th ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, pp. 1817-1818 (2004)
(2) Tsumura T et al; Food Addit Contam 20(4): 317-324 (2003)
(3) Heath JL, Reilly M; Poult Sci 60(10): 2258-2264 (1981)

11.2.14 Other Environmental Concentrations

... Migration /citric acid, acetyl tributyl ester/ plasticizer from plasticized polyvinylidene chloride-polyvinyl chloride ...films into both olive oil and distilled water during microwave heating was studied. The amount of /citric acid, acetyl tributyl ester/ migrating into olive oil after heating for 10 min was 73.9 mg/L, into distilled water it was 4.1 mg/L after heating for 8 min.
Sheftel, V.O.; Indirect Food Additives and Polymers. Migration and Toxicology. Lewis Publishers, Boca Raton, FL. 2000., p. 193
Food-grade polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cling-film containing 5.3% (w/w) di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA) and 3.0% (w/w) acetyltributyl citrate (ATBC) plasticizers was used to wrap halawa tehineh (halva) samples. Samples were split into two groups and stored at 25+/-1 degrees C. One group was analyzed for DEHA and ATBC content at intervals between 0.5 and 240hr of contact (kinetic study) and a second group was cut into slices (1.5mm thick) after 240hr of halva/PVC contact and was analyzed for DEHA and ATBC content (penetration study). Determination of both plasticizers was performed using a direct gas chromatographic (GC) method after extraction of DEHA from halva samples. DEHA readily migrated into halva samples: the equilibrium amount of DEHA in halva (3.31mg/sq dm film or 81.4mg/kg halva) corresponding to a loss of 54.7% (w/w) DEHA from PVC film. This value is slightly higher than the limit of 3mg/ sq dm of film surface set by the European Union for DEHA. The equilibrium amount of ATBC in halva was 1.46mg/sq dm (36.1mg/kg) corresponding to a loss of 42.7% ATBC from PVC film. With regard to the penetration of both placticizers into halva samples, migration of DEHA was detectable up to the 7th slice beneath the surface of halva (total depth 10.5mm) while the migration of ATBC was detectable up to the 5th slice (total depth 7.5mm).
Goulas AE et al; Food Chem Toxicol. 45 (4): 585-91 (2007)

11.2.15 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

According to the 2012 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, 6 reporting facilities estimate the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in their respective industrial use in the United States manufacturing, processing, or use of acetyl tributyl citrate (77-90-7) may be as low as <10 workers up to the range of 50-99 workers per plant; the data may be greatly underestimated due to confidential business information (CBI) or unknown values(1).
(1) US EPA; Chemical Data Reporting (CDR). Non-confidential 2012 Chemical Data Reporting information on chemical production and use in the United States. Available from, as of June 15, 2015: https://www.epa.gov/cdr/pubs/guidance/cdr_factsheets.html
NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 106,672 workers (98,182 of these are female) are potentially exposed to acetyl tributyl citrate in the US(1). Occupational exposure to acetyl tributyl citrate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where acetyl tributyl citrate is produced or used(SRC). Use data indicate that the general population may be exposed to acetyl tributyl citrate via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food containing this compound, and dermal contact with consumer products (such as cosmetics, paints and inks) containing acetyl tributyl citrate(SRC).
(1) NIOSH; NOES. National Occupational Exposure Survey conducted from 1981-1983. Estimated numbers of employees potentially exposed to specific agents by 2-digit standard industrial classification (SIC). Available from, as of Jun e 15, 2015: https://www.cdc.gov/noes/

12 Associated Disorders and Diseases

13 Literature

13.1 Consolidated References

13.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

13.3 Springer Nature References

13.4 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

13.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

13.6 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

14 Patents

14.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

14.2 WIPO PATENTSCOPE

14.3 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

14.4 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

14.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

15 Interactions and Pathways

15.1 Chemical-Target Interactions

16 Biological Test Results

16.1 BioAssay Results

17 Classification

17.1 MeSH Tree

17.2 NCI Thesaurus Tree

17.3 ChEBI Ontology

17.4 ChemIDplus

17.5 UN GHS Classification

17.6 EPA CPDat Classification

17.7 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

17.8 EPA DSSTox Classification

17.9 Consumer Product Information Database Classification

17.10 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

17.11 EPA Substance Registry Services Tree

17.12 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

18 Information Sources

  1. Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme (AICIS)
    1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, tributyl ester
    https://services.industrialchemicals.gov.au/search-assessments/
    1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, tributyl ester
    https://services.industrialchemicals.gov.au/search-inventory/
  2. CAS Common Chemistry
    LICENSE
    The data from CAS Common Chemistry is provided under a CC-BY-NC 4.0 license, unless otherwise stated.
    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
  3. ChemIDplus
    ChemIDplus Chemical Information Classification
    https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/source/ChemIDplus
  4. DTP/NCI
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise indicated, all text within NCI products is free of copyright and may be reused without our permission. Credit the National Cancer Institute as the source.
    https://www.cancer.gov/policies/copyright-reuse
  5. EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
    LICENSE
    The U.S. Government retains a nonexclusive, royalty-free license to publish or reproduce these documents, or allow others to do so, for U.S. Government purposes. These documents may be freely distributed and used for non-commercial, scientific and educational purposes.
    https://www.epa.gov/web-policies-and-procedures/epa-disclaimers#copyright
    1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, 1,2,3-tributyl ester
    https://www.epa.gov/chemical-data-reporting
  6. EPA Chemicals under the TSCA
    1,2,3-Propanetricarboxylic acid, 2-(acetyloxy)-, 1,2,3-tributyl ester
    https://www.epa.gov/chemicals-under-tsca
    EPA TSCA Classification
    https://www.epa.gov/tsca-inventory
  7. EPA DSSTox
    CompTox Chemicals Dashboard Chemical Lists
    https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/chemical-lists/
  8. European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
    LICENSE
    Use of the information, documents and data from the ECHA website is subject to the terms and conditions of this Legal Notice, and subject to other binding limitations provided for under applicable law, the information, documents and data made available on the ECHA website may be reproduced, distributed and/or used, totally or in part, for non-commercial purposes provided that ECHA is acknowledged as the source: "Source: European Chemicals Agency, http://echa.europa.eu/". Such acknowledgement must be included in each copy of the material. ECHA permits and encourages organisations and individuals to create links to the ECHA website under the following cumulative conditions: Links can only be made to webpages that provide a link to the Legal Notice page.
    https://echa.europa.eu/web/guest/legal-notice
  9. FDA Global Substance Registration System (GSRS)
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA website (www.fda.gov), both text and graphics, are not copyrighted. They are in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from FDA. Credit to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the source is appreciated but not required.
    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  10. Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
  11. Human Metabolome Database (HMDB)
    LICENSE
    HMDB is offered to the public as a freely available resource. Use and re-distribution of the data, in whole or in part, for commercial purposes requires explicit permission of the authors and explicit acknowledgment of the source material (HMDB) and the original publication (see the HMDB citing page). We ask that users who download significant portions of the database cite the HMDB paper in any resulting publications.
    http://www.hmdb.ca/citing
  12. International Fragrance Association (IFRA)
    LICENSE
    (c) The International Fragrance Association, 2007-2021. All rights reserved.
    https://ifrafragrance.org/links/copyright
  13. New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
    LICENSE
    This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International licence.
    https://www.epa.govt.nz/about-this-site/general-copyright-statement/
  14. ChEBI
  15. Toxin and Toxin Target Database (T3DB)
    LICENSE
    T3DB is offered to the public as a freely available resource. Use and re-distribution of the data, in whole or in part, for commercial purposes requires explicit permission of the authors and explicit acknowledgment of the source material (T3DB) and the original publication.
    http://www.t3db.ca/downloads
    Acetyl tributyl citrate
    http://www.t3db.ca/toxins/T3D4871
  16. ChEMBL
    LICENSE
    Access to the web interface of ChEMBL is made under the EBI's Terms of Use (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/Information/termsofuse.html). The ChEMBL data is made available on a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/).
    http://www.ebi.ac.uk/Information/termsofuse.html
  17. Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD)
    LICENSE
    It is to be used only for research and educational purposes. Any reproduction or use for commercial purpose is prohibited without the prior express written permission of NC State University.
    http://ctdbase.org/about/legal.jsp
  18. Consumer Product Information Database (CPID)
    LICENSE
    Copyright (c) 2024 DeLima Associates. All rights reserved. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials from CPID are copyrighted by DeLima Associates. No part of these materials, either text or image may be used for any purpose other than for personal use. Therefore, reproduction, modification, storage in a retrieval system or retransmission, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical or otherwise, for reasons other than personal use, is strictly prohibited without prior written permission.
    https://www.whatsinproducts.com/contents/view/1/6
    Consumer Products Category Classification
    https://www.whatsinproducts.com/
  19. Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
  20. EPA Chemical and Products Database (CPDat)
  21. Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
    LICENSE
    Copyright (c) 2022 Haz-Map(R). All rights reserved. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials from Haz-Map are copyrighted by Haz-Map(R). No part of these materials, either text or image may be used for any purpose other than for personal use. Therefore, reproduction, modification, storage in a retrieval system or retransmission, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical or otherwise, for reasons other than personal use, is strictly prohibited without prior written permission.
    https://haz-map.com/About
    Acetyl tributyl citrate
    https://haz-map.com/Agents/3434
  22. NORMAN Suspect List Exchange
    LICENSE
    Data: CC-BY 4.0; Code (hosted by ECI, LCSB): Artistic-2.0
    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
    Acetyl tributyl citrate
    NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification
    https://www.norman-network.com/nds/SLE/
  23. Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA)
    LICENSE
    Permission from WHO is not required for the use of WHO materials issued under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Intergovernmental Organization (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO) licence.
    https://www.who.int/about/policies/publishing/copyright
  24. EU Food Improvement Agents
  25. FDA Substances Added to Food
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA website (www.fda.gov), both text and graphics, are not copyrighted. They are in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from FDA. Credit to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the source is appreciated but not required.
    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  26. Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association (FEMA)
  27. MassBank Europe
    2-ACETYLOXY-1,2,3-PROPANETRICARBOXYLIC ACID TRIBUTYL ESTER
    https://massbank.eu/MassBank/Result.jsp?inchikey=QZCLKYGREBVARF-UHFFFAOYSA-N
  28. MassBank of North America (MoNA)
    LICENSE
    The content of the MoNA database is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
    https://mona.fiehnlab.ucdavis.edu/documentation/license
  29. NIST Mass Spectrometry Data Center
    LICENSE
    Data covered by the Standard Reference Data Act of 1968 as amended.
    https://www.nist.gov/srd/public-law
  30. SpectraBase
    CITRIC ACID, TRIBUTYL ESTER, ACETATE
    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/6Vjubc7g40m
    citric acid, tributyl ester, acetate
    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/5LbuG2XHkeL
    CITRIC ACID, TRIBUTYL ESTER, ACETATE
    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/KkVoHctOQW0
    Citric acid, tributyl ester acetate
    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/Eajc5Tq8hxE
    CITRIC ACID, TRIBUTYL ESTER, ACETATE
    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/C13guKzn91w
  31. Japan Chemical Substance Dictionary (Nikkaji)
  32. Metabolomics Workbench
  33. NCI Thesaurus (NCIt)
    LICENSE
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    https://www.cancer.gov/policies/copyright-reuse
  34. NLM RxNorm Terminology
    LICENSE
    The RxNorm Terminology is created by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) and is in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from NLM. Credit to the U.S. National Library of Medicine as the source is appreciated but not required. The full RxNorm dataset requires a free license.
    https://www.nlm.nih.gov/research/umls/rxnorm/docs/termsofservice.html
  35. Springer Nature
  36. Wikidata
  37. Wikipedia
  38. PubChem
  39. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
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    https://www.nlm.nih.gov/copyright.html
  40. GHS Classification (UNECE)
  41. EPA Substance Registry Services
  42. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
  43. PATENTSCOPE (WIPO)
CONTENTS