Acetic Acid: Chemical nature and Uses

Acetic acid with chemical formula CH3COOH is a monocarboxylic acid with one “COOH” group. It’s an anhydrous, clear, colourless liquid having a pungent smell. Acetic acid is also known as ethanoic acid, ethylic acid, vinegar acid, and methane carboxylic acid. In the diluted form. next to formic acid, acetic acid is the simplest carboxyl group. Acetic acid uses are umpteen, and it is used across several industries.

Acetic acid is an important chemical reagent, mainly used in the production of cellulose acetate for photographic film and polyvinyl acetate for wood glue, as well as synthetic fibers and fabrics. Acetic acid uses are not limited to industrial applications, it is also used in medical, household and food industry.

The word ‘acetic’ comes from the Latin word ‘acetum’ which means ‘vinegar’. People commonly know the dilute form of acetic acid “Vinegar”. Acetic acid with 4% dilution is known as vinegar. Vinegar’s pungent smell and sour taste are the characteristics of acetic acid present in it. Acetic acid suppliers across the world, supply food grade acetic acid for the production of vinegar.               

Glacial acetic acid is the water free acetic acid. Its use depend on the strength of the acid. A reputed chemical supplier can give you a clear idea on its uses and strength.

Chemical properties:

Acidic character:

When dissolved in water, acetic acid undergoes dissociation to form hydrogen (H+) ion. It indicates its acidic nature by turning blue litmus to red. However, it is a weak acid because it does not dissociate completely in aqueous solution.

Reaction with sodium bicarbonate

Acetic acid reacts with sodium bicarbonate to produce carbon dioxide.

Most common Acetic Acid Uses are: –

  • As a solvent for many industrial processes

  • For the manufacture of

    1. Various dye stuffs and perfumes

    2. Rayon fibre

    3. Synthetic fibres and textiles

    4. Inks and dyes

    5. Soft drinks bottles

    6. Rubbers and plastics

    7. Pesticides

    8. Wood glues

  • For testing blood in clinical laboratory

  • Used in film industry

  • for the treatment of outer ear infections from the growth of fungus and bacteria

  • Used as food additive

Approximately around 6.5 million tonnes of acetic acid is produced every year to meet the global demand. Pon pure chemicals group is one of the leading acetic acid supplier in India. We also offer a wide portfolio of quality chemicals for various industries. Get the best acetic acid price in India by sending enquiry..  

Being one of the leading acetic acid distributors, we also deliver acetic acid in overseas. Be it any quantity,small or bulk, we are capable of satisfying your requirement. Feel free to reach out to our customer care team and get the acetic acid wholesale price from us.

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