Acetic Acid

Overview

Acetic acid (CAS No: 64-19-7), also known as vinegar acid, is a colorless organic acid with a distinctive pungent smell. It is the main component responsible for the characteristic taste and odor of vinegar. It is an important chemical widely used in industrial applications and the food sector.

The pure form, known as glacial acetic acid (%99-100), solidifies below 16.6°C forming ice-like crystals. It is miscible with water, alcohol, ether, and acetone. Industrially, it is produced both synthetically and through bacterial fermentation.

Applications

Acetic acid has a wide range of industrial, food, and pharmaceutical applications:

Technical Specifications

Safety Information

Hazard Symbols and Statements

Corrosive Flammable Skin and eye irritation Respiratory irritation

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Acid-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
• Chemical goggles or face shield
• Appropriate respiratory protection against acid vapors
• Chemical-resistant apron or work clothing
• Acid-resistant footwear or boots

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, well-ventilated area
• Keep separate from oxidizers and bases
• Store in stainless steel, polyethylene, or glass containers
• Display "Corrosive Material" signs in storage area
• Storage temperature: 15-25°C (protect against freezing)

Fire Fighting

• Suitable extinguishers: Dry chemical, CO₂, alcohol-resistant foam
• Water mist may be used but avoid water jet
• Trained personnel should intervene with appropriate protective equipment
• Use respiratory protection against acid vapors during fire fighting

Handling and Storage

Handling

• Ensure containers are tightly closed during transport
• Use equipment made from acid-resistant materials
• Use stainless steel tankers for bulk transport
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling
• Keep neutralizing materials available for spills and leaks

Storage

• Store in stainless steel, glass, or special plastic (HDPE, PTFE) containers
• Do not contact with metals like aluminum, iron, or zinc
• Provide ventilation systems in storage tanks
• Keep acid neutralizing materials in storage areas
• Glacial acetic acid may freeze in cold weather, provide proper insulation

Spill Response Measures

• Remove all ignition sources
• Use appropriate respiratory protection and chemical protective clothing
• Neutralize with sodium bicarbonate or calcium carbonate
• Absorb small spills with absorbent materials (sand, vermiculite)
• For large spills, seek help from professional cleaning teams
• Wash spilled area with plenty of water

Regulatory Information

GHS Classification

• Corrosive/Skin Corrosion Category 1B
• Serious Eye Damage/Eye Irritation Category 1
• Flammable Liquid Category 3
• Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) Category 3

Key Regulations

• REACH: Registered
• CLP: Compliant
• FDA: Approved as food additive (21 CFR 184.1005)
• EFSA: Approved as food additive E260
• NFPA 704: Health 3, Flammability 2, Reactivity 0

International Regulations

• European Union: Subject to Directive 2008/58/EC
• USA: Listed in EPA TSCA inventory
• China: Present in IECSC list
• Japan: Present in ISHL list

Environmental Information

Environmental Impact

Acetic acid breaks down rapidly in nature through biological processes. When mixed with water sources, its high water solubility may show moderate toxic effects on aquatic organisms. Contamination of groundwater should be prevented.

Biodegradation

• Air: 1-2 week half-life through photochemical reactions
• Water: Degrades within 1-5 days through microbial activity
• Soil: Rapid degradation through microbial activity

Waste Management

• Classified as hazardous waste
• Can be neutralized (with sodium bicarbonate) before disposal
• Large quantities must be incinerated in licensed hazardous waste facilities
• Dispose according to local regulations
• Must be neutralized before discharge into sewers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is acetic acid the same as vinegar?

No, vinegar contains 4-8% diluted acetic acid and includes flavoring substances. Industrial acetic acid is typically produced at 99.7% and above purity and is not used for food purposes.

What is glacial acetic acid?

Glacial acetic acid is the form with 99.7% and above purity and very low water content. It is named glacial because it solidifies below 16.6°C forming ice-like crystals.

Which metals does acetic acid react with?

Acetic acid reacts with metals like aluminum, iron, zinc, and magnesium, releasing hydrogen gas. Stainless steel, glass, and certain plastics (HDPE, PTFE) are suitable for acetic acid storage.

What is the shelf life of acetic acid?

When stored in properly sealed containers, acetic acid has no significant shelf life limit. However, long-term storage may result in concentration reduction due to water absorption.

What should I do if acetic acid contacts skin?

Immediately rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. If contamination is extensive, remove all clothing. Seek medical help if irritation persists. For eye contact, rinse immediately with water and consult an eye doctor.