ESTER SERIES

An organic compound formed by the reaction of an acid (carboxylic or inorganic oxylic acid) with an alcohol is called an ester. Low-grade esters are aromatic volatile liquids, while high-grade esters are waxy solids or very thick liquids. Esters are difficult to dissolve in water, soluble in ethanol and ether and other organic solvents, density is generally smaller than water. In the presence of acids or bases, esters can hydrolyze to form corresponding acids or alcohols. Esters are neutral substances. Low molecular weight esters can be used as solvents, higher molecular weight esters are good plasticizers. Esters are also used in industries such as lubricants, perfumes, fragrances, cosmetics, soaps and pharmaceuticals.