2. Basic Information
• Largely produced around the world at 6.5 million tonnes each year
• Commonly used to manufacture cellulose acetate in the film industry and
polyvinyl acetate in wood glues
• Molecular formula, H3CO2H
• Also known as ethanoic acid or methyl carboxylic acid
• Exists as a clear, colourless liquid with a strong smell
3. • Acetic acid with no water content is also known as Glacial Acetic Acid or
anhydrous acetic acid
• Acetic acid can be used varying concentration to suit its purpose
4. Popular Uses
• As a solvent for a multitude of industrial process
• Used as an active ingredient in fragrance and perfumes
• Used in the production of synthetic fibres and textiles
• To make ink and dyes
• Manufacturing of rubber and plastics
5. Specific Areas
• Medicinal Industry
• Acetic acid in the form of vinegar has been used since early times as a form of food
preservatives
• Soothe sunburnt skin and cure one from jellyfish stings.
• Effective tool for cervical cancer screening
• Recently been used to prevent the likelihood of diabetes.
6. • Health and Hygiene
• Added in hair conditioner, detangler and natural deodorant.
7. • Household cleaning
• Acetic acid in the form of white vinegar is used in a variety of cleaning tasks from
removing smears and streaks on mirrors to descaling coffee making machines because
of its environmentally friendly cleaning properties.
• Remove urine odours and pet stains and is extremely effective against the build up of
mould
8. • Food Flavouring
• Produce pickles as a condiment and flavor enhancer, preserve vegetables like beetroot,
manufacture mint sauce and production of sushi rice.
• Exists in various forms like malt, white, wine, cane and palm vinegar.