Acetic acid with the chemical formula CH3COOH is an organic acid.  This acid is a weak acid because only some acid is isolated in aqueous solution. Pure anhydrous acetic acid (glacial acetic acid) is a colorless liquid that absorbs water from its surroundings (hygroscopic) and freezes at a temperature of 16.5 °C in the form of a colorless crystalline solid. Pure acid and its concentrated solutions are very corrosive.

Acetic acid is one of the simplest carboxylic acids. This acid is an important chemical reagent and is an industrial chemical used in the production of the different chemicals.  

Acetic acid is produced industrially both synthetically and by bacterial fermentation. About 75% of acetic acid made for use in the chemical industry is made by the carbonylation of methanol. The biological route accounts for only about 10% of world production, but it remains important for the production of vinegar because many food purity laws require vinegar used in foods to be of biological origin. Other processes are methyl formate isomerization, conversion of syngas to acetic acid, and gas phase oxidation of ethylene and ethanol.

Technical Characteristics
CAS Number64-19-7
Other namesEthanoic acid Vinegar Hydrogen acetate Methanecarboxylic acid Ethylic acid
Molecular Weight60.052 g/mol
Chemical FormulaCH3COOH
AppearanceColorless liquid
Density1.049 g/cm3 (liquid)
Boiling point118 to 119 °C
Melting point16 to 17 °C

Applications 

  • Acetic acid exhibits strong bactericidal and antifungal activities
  • As a solvent
  • An acidity regulator in the food industry
  • Raw chemical for production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM)
  • Raw chemical for production of cellulose acetate, a versatile material used in the manufacturing of films, fibers, and cigarette filters

Environmental impact of Acetic acid

This compound does not have any special environmental problem and is biodegradable. It is soluble in water and can penetrate the soil and slightly acidify the soil.

Safety Measures and Regulations for Handling Acetic acid

While acetic acid has numerous beneficial uses, it is essential to handle it with caution due to its corrosive nature. Concentrated acetic acid can cause severe burns and damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. It is crucial to follow safety guidelines when working with acetic acid and use appropriate protective equipment.

When using acetic acid in household cleaning, dilution is necessary to ensure safety. It is important to read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid any adverse effects. Proper ventilation is also recommended when using acetic acid-based cleaners to prevent inhaling high concentrations of the vapors.

Packing

It is transported in the dedicated SS or Al tank truck, SS shipping tank or plastic barrel. The packing capacity of the plastic barrel is 25 kg, 50 kg or 200 kg. The packing container shall be clean and dry, and shall be gently handled to prevent any collision during transportation and loading/unloading.