Understanding the Properties and Uses of Glacial Acetic Acid by CAS Number

Understanding Glacial Acetic Acid A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction

Glacial acetic acid, a colorless liquid with a pungent odor, is a vital chemical compound with the formula CH₃COOH. It is often recognized by its CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number, which is 64-19-7. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of glacial acetic acid, its properties, uses, safety measures, and handling protocols.

Properties of Glacial Acetic Acid

Glacial acetic acid is characterized by its high purity, containing around 99.5% acetic acid by weight. Its boiling point is approximately 118°C (244°F) and its melting point is about 16.6°C (61.88°F). At temperatures below 16.6°C, it solidifies into a crystalline form, hence the term glacial. The density of glacial acetic acid is about 1.05 g/cm³, making it denser than water.

Chemically, glacial acetic acid is a weak acid and a polar protic solvent. It can participate in hydrogen bonding due to the presence of hydroxyl (-OH) groups, which grants it unique solvent capabilities that are crucial in various chemical reactions.

Industrial Applications

Glacial acetic acid is widely used in the chemical industry. Its primary applications include

1. Solvent Due to its excellent solvent properties, it is employed in the production of various chemicals, including acetates, which serve as important solvents and intermediates.

2. Production of Acetic Anhydride Acetic anhydride is produced from glacial acetic acid and is vital in the manufacture of cellulose acetate for photographic film, as well as in the production of aspirin and various synthetic fibers.

3. Food Industry Glacial acetic acid is also used as a food preservative, identified as E260. It aids in food preservation and provides a distinctive tangy flavor to many culinary products, including pickles and sauces.

4. Textile Industry In the textile sector, glacial acetic acid plays a crucial role in dyeing and as a fabric treatment agent.

5. Pharmaceuticals It is used in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds and as a reagent in laboratories.

Safety and Handling

While glacial acetic acid is a valuable industrial chemical, it poses several health hazards. It is corrosive and can cause severe burns upon contact with skin or eyes. Inhalation of its vapors can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to coughing and difficulty breathing. Therefore, proper safety measures must be undertaken when handling this substance.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) It is essential to wear appropriate PPE, such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats, when working with glacial acetic acid.

2. Ventilation Use in well-ventilated areas or under a fume hood to minimize inhalation risks.

3. Spill Response In case of a spill, avoid direct contact and use suitable materials like neutralizing agents or absorbent materials to clean up, followed by proper disposal in accordance with local waste disposal regulations.

4. Storage Store glacial acetic acid in a cool, dry location, ideally in a dedicated chemical storage cabinet, away from incompatible substances like oxidizers.

Conclusion

Glacial acetic acid is a critical compound in various industries, thanks to its versatile chemical properties and applications. Understanding its characteristics, uses, and safety protocols is essential for anyone working with this substance. With strict adherence to safety measures and responsible management, glacial acetic acid can be used effectively in numerous applications while minimizing the risks associated with its handling. Whether in the laboratory, food preparation, or industrial manufacturing, glacial acetic acid continues to be a key player in modern chemistry.