Ammonium Lactate

Ammonium Lactate is the ammonium salt of lactic acid, appearing as a clear, hygroscopic liquid or syrupy solution. It is widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries primarily for its moisturizing, pH adjusting, and antimicrobial properties. In topical formulations, it acts as a keratolytic agent to help exfoliate and hydrate skin, making it popular in treatments for dry, scaly, or ichthyotic skin conditions. Its biocompatibility and mild acidic nature make it a versatile ingredient in various industrial and personal care products.

Description

Ammonium Lactate Uses

Primary Uses 

Pharmaceutical & Dermatological Applications

  • Used in topical formulations such as creams, lotions, and gels to treat xerosis (dry skin), ichthyosis, and keratosis pilaris.

  • Acts as a humectant and exfoliant by promoting skin hydration and mild exfoliation of dead skin cells.

  • Incorporated in moisturizers to improve skin softness and elasticity.

  • Sometimes used in anti-aging and acne treatment products.

Cosmetics & Personal Care

  • Added to lotions, body washes, shampoos, and conditioners as a moisturizing agent.

  • Adjusts pH to maintain skin-friendly levels in formulations.

  • Enhances product stability and effectiveness.

Food Industry

  • Occasionally used as a food additive for pH regulation or as a flavor enhancer, though less common than lactic acid itself.

  • May be found in fermented food processing or preservation.

Secondary Uses 

Chemical & Industrial Uses

  • Used as a pH buffer and stabilizer in various chemical processes.

  • Can act as a biodegradable acidulant in cleaning and detergent formulations.

Agricultural Uses

  • Employed in certain formulations for soil pH adjustment or as a biodegradable additive in fertilizers.

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

  • Utilized in some drug formulations as a stabilizer or pH adjuster.

KEY ATTRIBUTES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Ammonium 2-hydroxypropanoate

  • Common/Trade Names: Ammonium Lactate

  • CAS Number: 78391-02-7

  • HS Code: 2918.15.00

  • Molecular Formula: C3H7NO3

  • Synonyms: Ammonium 2-hydroxypropionate

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Clear, colorless to slightly yellowish viscous liquid or syrup

  • Odor: Mild, characteristic lactic acid odor

  • Melting Point: Not applicable (liquid)

  • Boiling Point: Approx. 200–220°C (decomposes)

  • Density: ~1.1 g/cm³

  • Solubility: Fully miscible with water; soluble in alcohol

  • pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (typically 3.5–4.5 in solution)

  • Vapor Pressure: Low

  • Flash Point: Non-flammable

  • Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions; sensitive to prolonged heat and light

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • Hazard Class (GHS): Generally regarded as safe; mild irritant

  • NFPA Ratings: Health 1, Flammability 0, Reactivity 0

  • Exposure Limits: No established occupational exposure limits; low toxicity

  • Reactivity: Stable; no hazardous reactions under normal conditions

  • Incompatible Materials: Strong oxidizers, strong acids, and bases

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources

  • Container Type: Sealed plastic or glass containers recommended

  • Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly

  • Special Handling: Use protective gloves and eyewear when handling concentrated solutions

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Regulatory Status: Approved for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use in many countries

  • FDA (USA): Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for cosmetic use

  • REACH (EU): Registered chemical substance

  • Transportation: Not classified as hazardous for transport

  • Waste Disposal: Dispose according to local regulations; biodegradable

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic life

  • Persistence: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions

  • Carcinogenicity: Not carcinogenic or mutagenic

  • Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

  • PPE: Wear gloves and safety goggles to avoid skin and eye contact with concentrated solutions.

  • Handling: Avoid inhaling vapors; handle in well-ventilated areas.

  • Storage: Keep containers tightly closed; store away from incompatible substances.

  • Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; avoid ingestion or contact with eyes.

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory irritation occurs.

  • Skin Contact: Rinse affected area with water; remove contaminated clothing; seek medical advice if irritation persists.

  • Eye Contact: Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; consult a physician if irritation continues.

  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth; drink water; seek medical attention if large amounts ingested.

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Non-flammable and non-combustible; may emit irritating fumes if heated to decomposition.

  • Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ to extinguish surrounding fires.

  • Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear to avoid inhalation of fumes.