اسید استیک (Acetic Acid)

What is Acetic Acid? | Uses, Properties, Safety Tips and Purchasing Acetic Acid

What is Acetic Acid? Acetic acid (Acetic Acid) is a weak organic acid with the chemical formula CH₃COOH. It is recognized as a colorless liquid with a sharp, pungent odor. This substance is the main component of vinegar and plays a very important role in the chemical, food, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing industries.

Acetic acid is considered one of the most widely used chemical raw materials in the world and, due to its special chemical properties, has a wide range of applications.

Physical and Chemical Properties of Acetic Acid

• Chemical formula: CH₃COOH
• Molecular weight: 60.05 g/mol
• Physical state: Colorless liquid
• Odor: Sharp and pungent
• Boiling point: Approximately 118 °C
• Solubility: Completely soluble in water

Applications of Acetic Acid in Various Industries

Use of Acetic Acid in the Chemical Industry Acetic acid is used as a raw material in the production of:

• Vinyl acetate monomer (VAM)
• Acetates and industrial solvents
• Resins, polymers, and adhesives

Use of Acetic Acid in the Food Industry

• Production of edible vinegar
• Natural food preservative
• Acidity regulator (pH control)

Use of Acetic Acid in the Pharmaceutical Industry

• Production of medicines and pharmaceutical compounds
• Mild disinfectant
• Use in medical laboratories

Use of Acetic Acid in the Detergent/Cleaning Industry

• Removal of limescale deposits
• Production of industrial cleaning agents
• Elimination of unpleasant odors

Difference Between Industrial and Food-Grade Acetic Acid Industrial acetic acid has a high concentration and contains chemical impurities and must never be used for consumption or food purposes. In contrast, food-grade acetic acid is produced with a lower percentage and meets hygienic/food safety standards.

Safety Precautions When Using Acetic Acid

• Wearing gloves and safety goggles is mandatory
• Avoid inhaling its vapors
• Direct contact with skin and eyes is dangerous
• Use only in a well-ventilated area

Advantages of Acetic Acid ✔ Reasonable price ✔ Easy availability ✔ Wide application in various industries ✔ High effectiveness in chemical processes

Purchasing Acetic Acid | Price and Important Tips When buying acetic acid, pay attention to the following:

• Purity percentage and grade (industrial or food-grade)
• Type of packaging
• Brand and country of manufacture
• Product analysis certificate (COA)

Summary Acetic acid is one of the most important and widely used chemicals, playing a key role in many industries. Understanding its properties, applications, and safety considerations helps in making the right choice and using it correctly.