Triacetin

Triacetin (glycerol triacetate) is the triester of glycerol and acetic acid. The molecular formula is C9H14O6.

Triacetin is a colorless, viscous liquid at room temperature with a relatively high boiling point for a small ester. It is miscible with water and many organic solvents.

Industrial production involves esterification of glycerol with acetic anhydride or acetic acid under acid catalysis, with water removal to drive the reaction. It is used as a solvent for flavors, fragrances, resins, and waxes; as a humectant in foods; and as a plasticizer for nitrocellulose and other polymers. In the food industry it is listed as the additive E1518.

Triacetin has relatively low acute toxicity; it hydrolyzes to glycerol and acetic acid and is considered of low hazard when handled per standard industrial practices. It is widely used in consumer products and manufacturing, but its use is governed by applicable safety and regulatory standards.