Acetic acid glacial
[CAS# 64-19-7]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Synthetic anti-infective drugs >> Disinfectant antiseptic
• Name: Acetic acid glacial
• Synonyms: Glacial acetic acid
• Molecular Formula: C₂H₄O₂
• Molecular Weight: 60.05
• CAS Registry Number: 64-19-7
• EC Number: 200-580-7
• SMILES: CC(=O)O

Properties

• Density: 1.048
• Melting point: 16-16.5 °C
• Boiling point: 117-118 °C
• Refractive index: 1.3715
• Flash point: 40 °C
• Water solubility: miscible

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS08;GHS09 Danger
• Risk Statements: H302+H332-H302-H332-H360-H360D-H373-H40-H410
• Safety Statements: P203-P260-P261-P264-P270-P271-P273-P280-P301+P317-P304+P340-P317-P318-P319-P330-P391-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1A	H314
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	3	H226
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Substances or mixtures corrosive to metals	Met. Corr.	1	H290
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	1	H370
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1	H314
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1C	H314
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Respiratory sensitization	Resp. Sens.	1	H334
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335

• Transport Information: UN 2789

Discovery and Applications

Acetic acid, commonly known as acetic acid, has been known since ancient times, and modern understanding and isolation of it have evolved over the centuries. Glacial acetic acid is its purest form, usually defined as containing at least 99% acetic acid by mass. Its chemical formula is CH3COOH, and the carboxylic acid structure dissociates in aqueous solution and releases hydrogen ions, resulting in a characteristic sour taste and acidity.

In the food industry, glacial acetic acid is used as a food additive and preservative. It enhances the flavor of condiments, sauces, and pickled products, and helps enhance taste and preserve freshness by lowering pH and inhibiting microbial growth. It is also a key ingredient in the production of vinegar, where the fermentation process converts ethanol into acetic acid, which determines the characteristic acidity of vinegar.

Glacial acetic acid is essential in industrial processes, especially in the production of various chemicals, plastics, and synthetic fibers. It is a precursor to acetate esters, which are used in solvents, coatings, and adhesives. Its role as a solvent extends to the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, where it is used in the formulation of drugs, dyes, and personal care products.

In pharmaceuticals, glacial acetic acid is used in the synthesis of acetaminophen and other drugs, aiding in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and drug formulations. Its antiseptic properties have historically been used in medical settings for wound care and disinfection, although modern medical practices favor safer alternatives for direct application to skin and tissue.

In agriculture, glacial acetic acid is used in herbicides and pesticides as a natural and biodegradable alternative to traditional chemical treatments. Its effectiveness in controlling weeds and pests highlights its role in sustainable agricultural practices, with minimal environmental impact compared to synthetic alternatives.

Glacial acetic acid can be safely used in regulated quantities in a variety of applications. Strict adherence to safety guidelines ensures its proper handling and storage to mitigate risks associated with its corrosive properties and skin and respiratory irritation. Global regulatory agencies oversee its use in the food, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors to safeguard consumer health and environmental standards.

Ongoing research focuses on improving the sustainability and efficiency of acetic acid production through advanced fermentation and synthesis technologies. Green chemistry innovations aim to reduce energy consumption and waste generation, promote environmentally friendly manufacturing practices, and reduce the carbon footprint associated with acetic acid production.

References

2022. Dark-purple rice extract modulates gut microbiota composition in acetic acid- and indomethacin-induced inflammatory bowel disease in rats. International microbiology: the official journal of the Spanish Society for Microbiology, 26(3).
DOI: 10.1007/s10123-022-00309-x

2023. Optimization of Mobile Phase Modifiers for Fast LC-MS-Based Untargeted Metabolomics and Lipidomics. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(3).
DOI: 10.3390/ijms24031987

2023. The Impact of Acetic Acid on Measuring Ethanol Concentrations in Water and Human Serum Using Short-Wave Infrared Spectroscopy. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(3).
DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032980