Glacial acetic acid is a term that refers to pure acetic acid, which is the main component of vinegar. The name comes from the fact that pure acetic acid freezes at 16.6°C (61.9°F), which is close to the freezing point of water. When pure acetic acid is exposed to cold temperatures, it forms ice-like crystals that resemble glaciers.
What is Acetic Acid?
Acetic acid is an organic acid that has the chemical formula CH3COOH. It is a colorless liquid with a sour taste and a pungent smell. Acetic acid is produced naturally by bacteria in the fermentation of sugars and alcohols. It is also synthesized industrially from methanol and carbon monoxide.
Chemical Properties of Glacial Acetic Acid
| Property | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical formula | CH3COOH | |
| Molecular weight | 60.05 g/mol | |
| Density | 1.049 g/mL at 25 °C | |
| Boiling point | 117-118 °C | |
| Melting point | 16.2 °C | |
| Vapor pressure | 11.4 mm Hg at 20 °C | |
| Refractive index | 1.371 at 20 °C | |
| pKa | 4.74 at 25 °C | |
| HS code | 29152100 |
Acetic acid has many uses in various industries, such as food, textile, pharmaceutical, and chemical. Some of its applications include:
- Vinegar: Acetic acid is the main ingredient of vinegar, which is used as a condiment, a preservative, and a cleaning agent.
- Textile dyeing: Acetic acid is used to adjust the pH of dye baths and to improve the color fastness of fabrics.
- Aspirin: Acetic acid is used to make acetylsalicylic acid, which is the active ingredient of aspirin, a common painkiller and anti-inflammatory drug.
- Rubber: Acetic acid is used to make synthetic rubber, such as polyvinyl acetate and polyvinyl alcohol.
- Plastic: Acetic acid is used to make plasticizers, such as ethyl acetate and butyl acetate, which are added to plastics to increase their flexibility and durability.
How to Use Glacial Acetic Acid Safely?
Glacial acetic acid is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns and damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Therefore, it should be handled with extreme care and only by trained professionals. Some of the safety precautions that should be followed when using GAA are:
- Wear protective clothing, such as gloves, goggles, and aprons.
- Work in a well-ventilated area or use a fume hood.
- Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.
- Do not inhale or ingest glacial acetic acid.
- Store glacial acetic acid in a cool, dry, and dark place away from heat sources and incompatible materials, such as bases, metals, and oxidizers.
- In case of accidental exposure, rinse the affected area with plenty of water and seek medical attention immediately.
How to Buy glacial acetic acid?
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