Product Introduction
n-Propyl Acetate (CAS 109-60-4), also known as NPAC, is a clear, colorless liquid with a pleasant, pear-like fruity odor. It is an ester formed by the reaction of acetic acid and n-propanol. In the coatings and inks industry, NPAC is highly valued for its ability to dissolve a wide range of natural and synthetic resins, including nitrocellulose, dual-shell resins, and rosins. Its evaporation rate is perfectly positioned between ethyl acetate and butyl acetate, making it an ideal choice for formulations that require precise drying control to ensure optimal print quality and film integrity.
Product Selling Points
1. Superior Thinning Power for Inks
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Advantage: Highly effective at reducing the viscosity of various resin systems without compromising stability.
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Benefit: High-Speed Printing: Specifically optimized for flexographic and gravure printing, ensuring smooth ink transfer and high-definition results on various packaging substrates.
2. Controlled Evaporation & Flow
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Advantage: Evaporates slower than ethyl acetate, preventing premature drying on the printing plates.
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Benefit: Reduced Downtime: Minimizes the need for frequent solvent additions and adjustments, leading to consistent production quality and reduced waste in coating processes.
3. Mild Odor & Enhanced Safety
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Advantage: Features a relatively mild, fruity scent compared to harsher ketones or aromatics.
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Benefit: Better Work Environment: Ideal for use in food packaging facilities where low residual odor is a critical requirement for safety and consumer acceptance.
Applications
Printing Inks
A key solvent component in flexographic and gravure inks for flexible packaging, ensuring excellent adhesion and drying properties.
Coatings & Paints
Used in wood lacquers, automotive finishes, and aerosol coatings to provide good flow and leveling for a smooth, high-gloss surface.
Organic Synthesis
Acts as a versatile intermediate and reagent in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other fine chemicals.
Flavors & Fragrances
Utilized as a flavor carrier or fragrance ingredient to provide fruity (pear/apple) notes in consumer products.
Packaging & Storage
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Packaging: 180kg or 200kg UN-certified steel drums; ISO tanks for bulk shipment.
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Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated fireproof area. Crucial: Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames. Use explosion-proof electrical equipment and ground all containers during transfer. Keep the container tightly sealed when not in use.
Synonyms
NPAC; n-Propyl ethanoate; Acetic acid propyl ester; Propyl acetate.
Matching Materials
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n-Propanol (CAS 71-23-8) —— Raw material for Propyl Acetate synthesis
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Acetic Acid (CAS 64-19-7) —— Key reactant for NPAC production
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Nitrocellulose (CAS 9004-70-0) —— Common resin base used with NPAC in lacquers
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Ethyl Acetate (CAS 141-78-6) —— Often used in combination to adjust drying speed
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n-Butyl Acetate (CAS 123-86-4) —— Blended with NPAC for slower drying formulations
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Isopropanol (CAS 67-63-0) —— Co-solvent often found in printing ink mixtures
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Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (CAB) —— Resin often dissolved in NPAC for specialized coatings
FAQ
Q: What is the main difference between n-Propyl Acetate and Isopropyl Acetate?
A: n-Propyl Acetate (NPAC) has a slightly higher boiling point and slower evaporation rate than Isopropyl Acetate (IPAC). This makes NPAC better for high-precision printing where drying speed needs to be strictly controlled.
Q: Can it be used in food-grade packaging?
A: Yes, it is widely used in food packaging inks because of its relatively low toxicity and the fact that it leaves very little residual odor on the substrate.
Q: How do you handle the high flammability of this product?
A: NPAC is a Class 3 flammable liquid. We use UN-certified drums and follow strict IMDG/ADR guidelines for shipping. Proper grounding and explosion-proof equipment are essential during handling.
Q: Does it mix easily with other solvents?
A: Yes, it is fully miscible with most organic solvents, including alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, ethers, and aliphatic/aromatic hydrocarbons.
Q: Is it prone to hydrolysis?
A: Like other esters, it can slowly hydrolyze in the presence of water to form n-propanol and acetic acid. We maintain moisture levels < 0.1% to ensure long-term stability.
