What Is Glycolic Acid Butylester Used For?
Glycolic acid butyl ester, also known as butyl glycolate, is a derivative of glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). The compound was patented in 1977. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Glycolic Acid Butyl Ester
-
Glycolic acid butyl ester is a chemical compound created by the condensation of an alcohol and an acid, combined with the elimination of water.
Uses
-
Glycolic acid butyl ester is also used in ink. AHAs have different uses ranging from skin care, cosmetics, nail polish, industrial cleaning and stripping heavy metals and mineral deposits, as well as the dying process for leather and textiles.
Industrial strength glycolic acid, including glycolic acid butyl ester, is used in solvents, paints, inks and emulsion polymers. It's also been used in artificial flavoring, pH control and water treatment.
The compound is most commonly used as an additive to paint and lacquer.
-
Function
-
Glycolic acid butyl ester also helps reduce wrinkling when paint drys. Its popularity in skin care is largely due to the compounds low molecular weight, so it easily penetrates the skin. The aggressive exfoliation AHAs are known for result in improved skin tone and texture.
When used as a solvent, glycolic acid butyl ester improves a product's ability to spread or flow. It also increases shine, gloss or glow as well as reduces wrinkling during dry-down.
Risks
-
As with any chemical, there are risks from using it. Glycolic acid and its derivatives are known irritants, and can burn skin when used improperly. Even when used as directed, these types of chemicals can cause contact dermatitis or an allergic reaction.
Glycolic acid butyl ester has a high rate of stability, which makes it a desirable ingredient; but its flammability requires the user take appropriate safety steps.
Storage
-
Products containing glycolic acid butyl ester should be stored in a dark, cool, dry place. If the chemical is at industrial strength, additional steps must also be taken, including storage in stainless steel or aluminum drums or tanks.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit yellow paint image by Jennifer Griner from Fotolia.com ink parchment and pen 2 image by Lauren Ingro from Fotolia.com paint image by CraterValley Photo from Fotolia.com
