Applications of Acetic Acid

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Basic Information

• Largely produced around the world at 6.5 million tonnes each year

• Commonly used to manufacture cellulose acetate in the film industry and polyvinyl acetate in wood glues

• Molecular formula, H3CO2H

• Also known as ethanoic acid or methyl carboxylic acid

• Exists as a clear, colourless liquid with a strong smell

• Acetic acid with no water content is also known as Glacial Acetic Acid or anhydrous acetic acid

• Acetic acid can be used varying concentration to suit its purpose

Popular Uses

• As a solvent for a multitude of industrial process

• Used as an active ingredient in fragrance and perfumes 

• Used in the production of synthetic fibres and textiles

• To make ink and dyes

• Manufacturing of rubber and plastics

Specific Areas

• Medicinal Industry • Acetic acid in the form of vinegar has been used since early times

as a form of food preservatives

• Soothe sunburnt skin and cure one from jellyfish stings.

• Effective tool for cervical cancer screening

• Recently been used to prevent the likelihood of diabetes.

• Health and Hygiene• Added in hair conditioner, detangler and natural deodorant.

• Household cleaning• Acetic acid in the form of white vinegar is used in a variety of

cleaning tasks from removing smears and streaks on mirrors to descaling coffee making machines because of its environmentally friendly cleaning properties.

• Remove urine odours and pet stains and is extremely effective against the build up of mould

• Food Flavouring• Produce pickles as a condiment and flavor enhancer, preserve

vegetables like beetroot, manufacture mint sauce and production of sushi rice.

• Exists in various forms like malt, white, wine, cane and palm vinegar.