DEHP, DBP, and BBP are restricted under EU REACH, California Prop 65, and CPSC regulations for children's products, and the list of regulated phthalates continues to grow. Citrate esters are the established alternative for demanding applications.
Citriflex 84 (acetyl tributyl citrate, or ATBC) is a citrate ester plasticizer combining low volatility, strong compatibility, and a bio-based carbon content.
Properties of Citriflex 84 (ATBC)
ATBC is produced by esterification of citric acid (a naturally occurring tricarboxylic acid derived from fermentation of sugars) with butanol, followed by acetylation. Main characteristics:
- Low volatility: significantly lower than comparably performing phthalate plasticizers, resulting in improved heat aging and reduced weight loss in service
- Good plasticizing efficiency: achieves target flexibility at reasonable loading levels in PVC and nitrocellulose systems
- FDA compliance: acceptable for food contact, medical device, and pharmaceutical packaging applications
- Bio-based content: citric acid feedstock is derived from fermentation, giving ATBC a measurable bio-based carbon content by ASTM D6866
The full grade page for Citriflex 84 carries the specification the material is released against, CAS 77-90-7, the FDA and EU 10/2011 listings, and the list of documents available on request.
Key applications
- Food packaging PVC films: cling wraps, lidding films, and food service applications requiring FDA compliance
- Medical device PVC: blood bags, IV tubing, and medical packaging where DEHP restrictions apply
- Children's product PVC: toys and juvenile products regulated under CPSC and EU toy safety directives
- Nitrocellulose lacquers: where low volatility and film flexibility are required
- Personal care: as a solvent and plasticizer in nail polish, tablet coatings, and topical formulations
Evaluating phthalate alternatives?
PAT supplies Citriflex 84 and other citrate ester plasticizers. Contact us to request samples and technical documentation.
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