Triethyl citrate is an ester of citric acid and ethanol, commonly used as a food additive, plasticizer, and in pharmaceuticals. If you're looking for a step-by-step synthesis, here is a simplified method for synthesizing triethyl citrate from citric acid and ethanol:
### Materials Needed:
1. Citric acid
2. Ethanol (absolute or anhydrous)
3. Acid catalyst (e.g., sulfuric acid)
4. Round-bottom flask
5. Reflux condenser
6. Heating mantle or hot