Acetic Acid

Acetic acid is a widely used organic acid recognized for its role in industrial manufacturing, food processing, and specialty chemical applications. Best known as the main component of vinegar, it offers excellent solubility, acidity, and reactivity, making it essential in food preservation, flavoring, and pH regulation. In industry, acetic acid is a key feedstock for the production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), acetic anhydride, and acetate esters, which are critical in plastics, adhesives, coatings, and textiles.

Beyond large-scale chemical production, acetic acid functions as a reagent, solvent, and intermediate across diverse pathways. It is commonly applied in polymer synthesis, pharmaceutical manufacturing, agrochemicals, and cleaning agents, where reliability and versatility are crucial. With its balance of affordability, performance, and broad industrial use, acetic acid remains an indispensable raw material for sectors ranging from food and beverage to construction, healthcare, and specialty chemicals.

Synonyms: acetic acid, glacial acetic acid, ethanoic acid, 64-19-7

Characteristics:

IUPAC Name: ethanoic acid

CAS Number: 64-19-7

UN Number: 2789 (glacial acetic acid), 2790 (aqueous solutions)

Recommended Use / Industries:

• Food & beverage: acidulant, preservative, vinegar production
• Textiles & leather processing
• Cleaning & sanitation products
• Plastics & polymers manufacturing
• Chemicals & intermediates (VAM, acetic anhydride)