Triethyl Citrate (TEC)
Triethyl citrate is the colorless, odorless ester of citric acid and ethanol, via esterification. The process for the synthesis of TEC is carried out by reacting citric acid with ethanol in an acid catalyst, usually at high temperatures. Triethyl citrate is extensively used in the cosmetic and personal care industries as a plasticizer in perfumes, lotions, and hair care products.
It functions also as a solvent, emulsifier, and stabilizer. Also, TEC is applied as a flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry and as a stabilizer and plasticizer for tablet coating and drug delivery systems in the pharmaceutical industry. As a distributor of aroma chemicals, the Bulk Cart supplies the highest quality Triethyl Citrate (TEC), fulfilling COA, MSDS, and GC-MS standards.
Industrial Uses of Triethyl Citrate (TEC)
Cosmetic and Personal Care
TEC is used as a plasticizer and solvent in cosmetic formulations like perfumes, lotions, creams, and deodorants. It enhances the texture of formulations, so the product will apply smoothly rather than leave the skin dry or brittle. It is used as an important raw material for many products in skincare and fragrance applications.
Pharmaceutical Industry
TEC is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a plasticizer in tablet coatings and as part of drug delivery systems. It makes the tablet coatings more flexible and stable while improving appearance and ease of swallowing. It can also be used in controlled-release formulations to facilitate the effective delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Plastic Industry
Triethyl Citrate is used widely as a plasticizer in the manufacture of plastics. It is particularly applied to the production of flexible plastics that are useful in increasing material flexibility and durability with low volatilities. TEC is particularly applied in the production of eco-friendly plastics as it is biodegradable hence serving as an environmentally friendly alternative to common plasticizers.
Paint and Coatings
In the paint industry, TEC acts as a solvent and plasticizer for coatings and varnishes. It helps improve the paint's flow and application properties for better finish and prolongation. It prevents paints from having a higher viscosity and thus more difficult to apply without weakening coating strength or adhesion.
Fragrance Industry
Triethyl citrate is used in the fragrance industry as a solvent and a fixative in perfumes and colognes. It also helps stabilize fragrances, allowing for longer-lasting odors. The capacity of TEC to dissolve essential oils and enhance fragrance dispersion makes it an important component of high-end perfumes, deodorants, and air fresheners.
Rubber Industry
In the rubber industry, TEC acts as a plasticizer that increases the flexibility and processing characteristics of rubber compounds. TEC improves the elasticity and workability of rubber-based products like seals and gaskets. Moreover, TEC contributes to the durability of rubber products by improving its wear-resistant characteristics.
Packaging Sizes
Size available 12*9*6(1kg/3lbs), 12*9*9(4kg/11lbs), 18*12*12(25kg/61lbs) and 48*45*35(180kg/500lbs)

Pure Triethyl Citrate (TEC) Wholesale Supplier and Distributor
The Bulk Cart is a leading distributor, supplier, and seller of aroma chemicals and more in the USA. We sell the highest and purest quality Triethyl Citrate (TEC) in Wholesale for business purposes. We supply natural and organic products with our customers’ needs in mind. We ensure the premium quality of our products through numerous tests and checks.
We use the highest quality packaging to deliver our products safely for their desirable use. You can order high-quality Triethyl Citrate at low prices in bulk from the bulk cart. We ensure fast delivery and secure payment methods. The bulk cart offers Triethyl Citrate (TEC) prompt in stock from our 100,000 sq ft facility in California. Our company is USDA-certified.
Disclaimer
The above information is intended for general reference only and does not represent all of this aroma chemical's characteristics and applications.
Product Overview | |
Product Name | Triethyl Citrate (TEC) |
Botanical Name | triethyl 2-hydroxy-propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate |
Country of Origin | China & India |
Method of Extraction | Esterification |
Plant Part Used | N/a |
Product Specifications | |
Color and appearance | Colorless |
Aroma | Fruity |
Mixes Well With | |
Purity | Pure |
Chemical Constituents | Citric Acid, Ethanol |
Shelf Life | 2 Years |
Quality Assurance | |
Certificate | USDA Certified |
Testing | GC MS |
Packaging & Delivery | |
Packaging Options | 1Kg, 4Kg, 25Kg & 180Kg |
Minimum Order Quantity | 1Kg |
Shipping | Ships in 1-2 days in California |
Storage Instructions | Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight |
Customer Support & Services | |
Customer Support | info@thebulkcart.com |
Availability | In stock |
Additional Resources | |
Product Datasheet | Available upon request |
Safety Datasheet | Available upon request |

