It is produced in industry through biological and synthetic pathways. The salt and ester forms are called acetate. It is completely soluble in water. It is a weak acid.
Features
Application Areas
- Molar Mass: 60.052 g·mol⁻¹
- Appearance: Colorless liquid
- Odor: Strong vinegar-like
- Density: 1.049 g/cm³ (liquid); 1.27 g/cm³ (solid)
- Melting Point: 16 to 17 °C; 61 to 62 °F; 289 – 290 K
- Boiling Point: 118 to 119 °C; 244 to 246 °F; 391 – 392 K
- Solubility in Water: Miscible
- Vapor Pressure: 11.6 mmHg (20 °C)
- Acid Strength (pKa): 4.756
- Refractive Index (nD): 1.371 (VD = 18.19)
- Viscosity: 1.22 mPa·s
- It is used in vinegar production. Additionally, it prevents the formation of microorganisms and thus inhibits the spoilage of vegetables in the making of pickles.
- In industry, it serves as a raw material in the production of many chemicals. It is especially used in the production of vinyl acetate, and the polyvinyl acetate obtained from it is used as wood glue.
- It is employed as a solvent in the industry. For instance, it is used as a solvent in the production of terephthalic acid, which is utilized in the production of PET plastics. This usage accounts for 5-10% of all acetic acid applications.
- In the food industry, it is used as a buffer. It serves as an acidity regulator, preservative, and flavor enhancer.