(−)-Ethyl L-lactate
(−)-Ethyl L-lactate (CAS: 687-47-8; Formula: C5H10O3; Molar Mass: 118.13 g/mol) is a chiral ester utilised primarily in asymmetric synthesis and as a versatile building block in chemical synthesis. Its optically active nature makes it valuable for creating stereospecific compounds. Available with an assay of 98%, this ester serves as a key intermediate in the production of various fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
- IUPAC
- (−)-Ethyl (S)-2-hydroxypropionate,(S)-(−)-2-Hydroxypropionic acid ethyl ester,L-Lactic acid ethyl ester

Asymmetric Synthesis
Serves as a chiral building block for the stereoselective synthesis of complex molecules, including pharmaceutical intermediates and fine chemicals.
Organic Synthesis
Utilised as a versatile starting material or intermediate in various organic transformations, leveraging its ester functionality and chiral centre.
Chiral Resolution
Can be employed in processes requiring the separation or creation of enantiomerically pure compounds.
Specialty Chemical Production
Acts as a precursor in the synthesis of niche chemicals where specific chirality is a critical requirement.
| Molecular weight | 118.13 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C5H10O3 |
| Assay | 98% |
| Boiling point | 154 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.034 g/mL at 20 °C(lit.)1.042 g/mL at 25 °C |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.4130(lit.) |
| Optical activity | [α]14/D −10°, neat |
| Melting point | −26 °C(lit.) |
| Vapour pressure | 2 mmHg (20 °C)5 mmHg (30 °C) |
| Vapour density | 4.1 (vs air) |
| Autoignition temp | 752 °F |



Hazard statements
- H226Flammable liquid and vapour
- H318Causes serious eye damage
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 46 °C / 114.8 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1192 3 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 10-37-41 |
| Safety statements (S) | 24-26-39 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is (–)-Ethyl L-lactate used for?
+
(–)-Ethyl L-lactate is primarily used in asymmetric synthesis, chemical synthesis, and as a chiral building block. It is valuable for creating stereospecific compounds.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for (–)-Ethyl L-lactate?
+
The CAS number is 687-47-8, and the chemical formula is C5H10O3.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies (–)-Ethyl L-lactate with a minimum assay of 98%. TSS does not represent this product as USP, BP, EP or other pharmacopoeia grades unless explicitly stated in the product documentation.
What are the primary safety hazards associated with (–)-Ethyl L-lactate?
+
(–)-Ethyl L-lactate is a flammable liquid and vapour (H226), causes serious eye damage (H318), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, gloves, and respiratory protection, should be used.
How is (–)-Ethyl L-lactate packed, shipped, and exported?
+
Tech Serve Solutions packs, ships, and exports chemicals in compliance with all relevant national and international regulations. Specific packaging details are available upon request.
How can I request a sample or quote for (–)-Ethyl L-lactate?
+
You can request a sample or a quote by contacting our sales team through the website or by calling us directly. Please specify the quantity and any specific requirements.
▶ Related products

1-(2-Fluorobenzyl)piperazine
C11H15FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)biguanide hydrochloride
Chemical Synthesis

1-(2-Fluorophenyl)cyclopropanecarboxylic acid
C10H9FO2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine
C10H13FN2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Fluorophenyl)piperazine monohydrochloride
C10H13FN2 · HCl
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)-1H-benzotriazole
C11H7N3O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Furoyl)piperazine
C9H12N2O2
Chemical Synthesis
1-(2-Hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)-3-phenyl-1,3-propanedione
Chemical Synthesis
▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis