19/02/2026
Acetic acid is a colorless liquid organic compound with a strong, distinct vinegar odor. Known as ethanoic acid, it is a key industrial chemical used to produce vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), cellulose acetate, and plastics, as well as a 4-18% concentration in household vinegar. It is a weak acid that is corrosive in concentrated forms.
Key Properties & Chemical Info
Common Names: Ethanoic acid, Methanecarboxylic acid, Vinegar acid, Glacial acetic acid (pure 100% form).
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid with a pungent, vinegar-like smell.
Boiling Point: 118-119 °C.
Solubility: Highly miscible with water.
Common Uses
Industrial/Manufacturing: Production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (soft drink bottles), cellulose acetate (photographic film), and polyvinyl acetate (wood glue).
Food Industry: Used as an acidity regulator (E260) and food preservative.
Household/Cleaning: Used for descaling lime scale, removing rust, and in various household cleaning products.
Medical/Other: Used for treating outer ear infections, teeth whitening, in textile printing, dyes, and pharmaceutical synthesis.