ACETIC ACID

Definition and Usage Areas Acetic Acid

Acetic acid is produced by biological and synthetic ways in the industry. The salt and its ester are called acetate. It is completely soluble in water. It is a weak acid. The glacial CH3COOH type of CH3COOH contains 99.5% pure acetic acid. This 99.5% glacial form of acetic acid solidifies at 17°C and forms a structure similar to crystalline ice particles.

Usage areas

• It is used in the manufacture of vinegar. It also prevents the spoilage of vegetables by preventing the formation of microorganisms in pickle production.
• It is used as a raw material in the production of most chemicals in industry. It is especially used in the production of vinyl acetate, the polyvinyl acetate obtained from it is used as wood glue.
• It is used in industry as a solvent. For example, it is used as a solvent in the production of terephthalic acid, which is used in the production of PET plastics. This use is 5-10% of the entire use of acetic acid.
• 4. It is used as a buffer in the food industry. It is used as an acidifier, preservative, flavoring.

• Safety Tips

  Acetic acid may not be a household name to many, but it’s actually a relatively common chemical. As a vital chemical in the industrial industry, acetic acid is used for a variety of purposes in many countries around the world. You may even encounter CH3COOH in a diluted form in your own house, or it might be a chemical you handle at work. In either case, it’s important to handle this potentially hazardous and corrosive acid with appropriate care by following these safety tips from our MSDS experts.

  Common Uses for Acetic Acid

  Acetic acid is a colorless liquid with a pungent, vinegary odor. This chemical was used in alchemy as early as the 3^rd century BC, often as glacial (waterless or anhydrous) . In modern times, CH3COOH is used for many purposes across several industries, including:

  • Vinyl acetate monomer (for the production of paint and adhesives)
  • Vinegar (4-18 percent CH3COOH)
  • Inks, paints, and dyes
  • Solvent
  • Iontophoresis for physical therapy

  Acetic acid is also used in the production of several other chemicals, which are then used to make preservatives, fungicides and pesticides, coatings and pigments.

  Acetic Acid Hazards

  Acetic acid can be a hazardous chemical if not used in a safe and appropriate manner. This liquid is highly corrosive to the skin and eyes and, because of this, must be handled with extreme care. CH3COOH can also be damaging to the internal organs if ingested or in the case of vapor inhalation. The use of PPE (personal protective equipment) is essential when handling this chemical in an undiluted state.

  How to Handle Acetic Acid Safely

  When handling acetic acid, it is essential to keep a few critical safety tips in mind. Never add water to this chemical, and always keep CH3COOH away from sources of heat, sparks or flame. Wear suitable respiratory equipment if handling CH3COOH in an area that isn’t well-ventilated. It is recommended that you wear the following protective gear when using CH3COOH:

  • Gloves
  • Splash goggles
  • Synthetic apron
  • Vapor respirator (if needed)

  Ensure that eye-wash stations are nearby if handling CH3COOH. In the event of a large spill in either the workplace or at home, a self-contained breathing apparatus should be equipped, and you should also wear a full protective suit for additional safety. If you do not have this equipment readily at hand, do not attempt to clean up the acetic acid without it.

  Proper Health Care for Acetic Acid Exposure

  Exposure to acetic acid can pose serious hazards to your health. This chemical is especially dangerous when it comes in contact with either the skin or eyes. In any instance of CH3COOH exposure, it is important to seek help from a medical professional right away to help prevent damaging health effects.

  Skin Contact – Immediately flush skin with water for at least 15 minutes and remove contaminated clothing. Cover the irritated skin with an emollient. In case of serious skin contact, wash using a disinfectant soap. Seek out medical attention as soon as possible.

  Eye Contact – Remove contact lenses right away if present. Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for no less than 15 minutes. Seek medical attention immediately.

  Ingestion – If CH3COOH is ingested, do not induce vomiting. If victim is unconscious, do not administer any mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Loosen any tight clothing. Seek medical attention immediately if any symptoms appear.

  Inhalation – If inhaled, seek fresh air and medical attention immediately. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen. If breathing is absent, give artificial respiration.

  Safe CH3COOH Storage & Disposal

  Acetic acid should be stored in an approved area away from heat or other sources of ignition. Keep away from incompatible materials including oxidizing agents, reducing agents, metals, acids and alkalis. Store CH3COOH in a cool, well-ventilated area in a tightly sealed container.

  This chemical must be disposed of in accordance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations. Here’s a great resource for safety compliance information.

  Safety is of the utmost importance when handling potentially dangerous chemicals such as CH3COOH. This corrosive liquid should be used with care, both in the workplace and in household products. For more information about CH3COOHd uses, safety, or disposal, search our database of MSDS information.