Abstract: A method for removing infection-caused nail discoloration is disclosed that contemplates the steps of a) contacting a fingernail and/or toenail in need removal of infection-caused nail discoloration with a composition containing a mixture of two major components, A and B. Component A is a C2-C4 alcohol present at about 90% to about 20% (w/w), and Component B is a lactate ester of the same or different C2-C4 alcohol(s) present at about 10% to about 80% (w/w). A contemplated composition optionally contains up to about 5% (w/w) each of one or more of a monoterpene or monoterpene mixture, thickening agent and C1-C4 alcohol C12-C20 carboxylate. That contact is maintained for a time period sufficient for the composition to be sorbed by the nail and/or evaporate, step b). Steps a) and b) are repeated about 5 to about 14 times per week until the nail discoloration is no longer observable.

Abstract: A mixture of ethanol and lactate esters have enhanced cleaning properties for food and biological processing applications and this mixture retains bacteriostatic properties during the cleaning process as well as in the used cleaning solutions after rinsing and dilution with water.

Abstract: A solvent composition of about 90 to about 10 percent by weight C1-C4 lactate ester and about 10 to about 90 percent by weight C2-C6 aliphatic alcohol with low odor and enhanced performance properties is disclosed. This composition can also be mixed with other solvents and continue to provide the low odor and enhanced performance properties.

Abstract: A solvent composition that comprises a C1-C4 lactate ester and an odor-reducing amount of a tertiary amine having a boiling point at one atmosphere of about 80° C. to about 160° C. is disclosed. The composition (a) is substantially free of odor due to the tertiary amine, (b) exhibits a reduced amount of odor due to the lactate ester as compared to the same composition without the tertiary amine, and (c) is a homogeneous liquid or gel at zero degrees Celsius. A method of reducing the odor of a lactate ester-based solvent is also disclosed.

Abstract: A solvent that is biodegradable, provides effective solvency for a broad range of tasks and is generally benign to human health is disclosed. This solvent is a mixture of a lactate ester and d-limonene.

Abstract: A solvent composition that comprises a C1-C4 lactate ester and an odor-reducing amount of a tertiary amine having a boiling point at one atmosphere of about 80° C. to about 160° C. is disclosed. The composition (a) is substantially free of odor due to the tertiary amine, (b) exhibits a reduced amount of odor due to the lactate ester as compared to the same composition without the tertiary amine, and (c) is a homogeneous liquid or gel at zero degrees Celsius. A method of reducing the odor of a lactate ester-based solvent is also disclosed.