Descriptions of Acetic Acid

Acetic acid (also called ethanoic acid) is a widely used organic chemical with a sharp, vinegar-like odor. It is a clear, colorless liquid that plays a critical role across chemical, pharmaceutical, textile, food, and industrial sectors. Available in various grades and concentrations, it serves both high-precision laboratory applications and large-scale industrial processes.

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Physical and Chemical Properties

The unique physical and chemical properties of acetic acid determine its versatility:

• Molecular Formula: CH₃COOH

• Molar Mass: 60.05 g/mol

• Appearance: Colorless liquid

• Odor: Strong, vinegar-like

• Density: 1.049 g/cm³ at 20°C (glacial)

• Boiling Point: 118°C

• Melting Point: 16.6°C

• Solubility: Completely miscible with water and polar solvents

• Acidity (pKa): 4.76

• Corrosiveness: Strongly corrosive to metals and living tissue

• Reactivity: Reacts with bases, oxidizing agents, and alcohols; widely used in esterification and chemical synthesis

These properties make acetic acid highly adaptable for a wide range of industrial, chemical, and food applications.

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Types and Grades of Acetic Acid

Acetic acid is produced in multiple grades to meet the requirements of different industries:

1. Glacial Acetic Acid (99–99.9%)

Glacial acetic acid is a highly concentrated, water-free form of the chemical. Its key applications include:

• Chemical synthesis: Used as a reagent in laboratory and industrial processes

• Textile treatment: Acts as a pH regulator and dye-fixing agent

• Vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) production: An essential raw material in polymers and plastics

This grade is highly reactive and corrosive, suitable for precision processes requiring high purity.

2. Industrial-Grade Acetic Acid

Industrial-grade acetic acid is ideal for large-scale chemical applications where ultra-high purity is not required. Common uses include:

• Adhesives, coatings, and plastics manufacturing

• Rubber production and solvent synthesis

• Intermediate chemical processes in various industrial sectors

3. Food-Grade (FCC/USP)

Food-grade acetic acid meets strict regulatory standards and is used in food processing as:

• A preservative for pickling and packaged foods

• An acidity regulator for beverages, sauces, and condiments

• A flavoring agent in processed foods

This grade complies with international safety and quality standards, ensuring suitability for direct human consumption.

4. Diluted Solutions (5%–30%)

Diluted acetic acid solutions are often used in:

• Cleaning agents and industrial descalers

• Laboratory experiments and research applications

• Applications requiring specific controlled concentrations

These solutions are convenient for handling and reducing risks in applications where concentrated acid is not required.

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Applications of Acetic Acid

Acetic acid is a highly versatile chemical used across multiple industries:

• Pharmaceuticals: Synthesis of intermediates and active ingredients

• Textiles & Dyeing: Fabric treatment, pH adjustment, and dye fixation

• Food Industry: Preservative, acidity regulator, and flavor enhancer

• Plastics & Polymers: Production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) and other polymer precursors

• Cleaning & Maintenance: Active component in industrial cleaners, descalers, and household products

• Chemical Manufacturing: Raw material for ester, acetate, and organic compound synthesis

Its adaptability to both precision and large-scale processes makes it a fundamental chemical in modern industries.

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Handling and Storage

Safe handling and storage of acetic acid are crucial due to its corrosive nature:

• Store in ventilated, cool areas away from direct sunlight

• Use corrosion-resistant containers such as HDPE, glass, or coated metal tanks

• Avoid contact with oxidizers, strong bases, and reactive metals

• Implement spill containment measures and use personal protective equipment (PPE)

Proper storage ensures stability, prevents accidents, and maintains product integrity.

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Packing Options

Acetic acid is available in various packaging formats depending on application and volume needs:

• 30L & 200L HDPE drums for small and medium-scale use

• 1,000L IBC tanks for industrial-scale requirements

• Flexitanks & ISO tanks for bulk shipment and international transport

All packaging options are designed to maintain chemical stability and allow safe handling and transport.

Technical Data Sheets Of Acetic Acid