Acetic acid (ethanoic acid): Overview
Description
Acetic acid is used in a number of topical medical preparations, including the destruction of warts, in eardrops, as an expectorant, liniment and astringent. It is used in the manufacture of a number of chemical compounds, plastics, pharmaceuticals, dyes, insecticides, photographic chemicals, vitamins, antibiotics, cosmetics and hormones. It is used as an antimicrobial agent, latex coagulant and oil-well acidifier. It is used in textile printing, as a preservative in foods and as a solvent for gums, resins and volatile oils.
Substance details
Substance name: Acetic acid
CASR number: 64-19-7
Molecular formula: C2H4O2
Synonyms: Ethanoic acid, vinegar, ethylic acid, vinegar acid, methanecarboxylic acid, TCLP extraction fluid 2, shotgun, glacial acetic acid, glacial ethanoic acid.
Physical properties
Acetic acid is a colourless liquid; with a strong vinegar-like odour. It is flammable, and at temperatures warmer than 39°C, explosive vapour/air mixtures may be formed. Acetic acid is considered a volatile organic compound by the National Pollutant Inventory.
Specific Gravity: 1.049 @ 25°C
Melting Point: 16.7°C
Boiling Point: 118°C
Vapour pressure: 1.5 kPa @ 20°C
Chemical properties
Acetic acid is hygroscopic, meaning that it tends to absorb moisture. It mixes with ethyl alcohol, glycerol, ether, carbon tetrachloride and water and reacts with oxidants and bases. Concentrated acetic acid is corrosive and attacks many metals forming flammable or explosive gases. It can also attack some forms of plastic, rubber and coatings.
Further information
The National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) holds data for all sources of acetic acid emissions in Australia.
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