Acetic acid glacial, commonly referred to as anhydrous acetic acid, is a cornerstone chemical used across industries including pharmaceuticals, food processing, plastics, and textiles. Its name reflects its purity—nearly 100% acetic acid without water content. This concentrated form of acetic acid is known for its strong vinegar-like smell, corrosive nature, and crucial role in organic synthesis. Understanding the glacial acetic acid meaning and how to interpret its chemical specifications, including the CAS number glacial acetic acid, is essential for businesses sourcing or using this compound.

This guide dives deep into the science, safety, sourcing, and usage of acetic acid glacial, empowering you to make informed decisions when purchasing, transporting, and working with this highly reactive and valuable substance.

Glacial Acetic Acid Meaning and Properties Explained

To understand the glacial acetic acid meaning, it is first necessary to define what distinguishes it from diluted or technical grades of acetic acid. "Glacial" refers to the anhydrous, or water-free, state of acetic acid, which solidifies just below room temperature (16.6°C) and appears like ice crystals—hence the term "glacial." In its pure form, acetic acid glacial is a colorless liquid with a strong, pungent odor and sharp taste. It is highly miscible with water but reacts exothermically upon dilution.

The anhydrous acetic acid has a chemical formula of CH₃COOH and is classified as a weak carboxylic acid, though in concentrated form, it behaves as a powerful solvent and reagent. It is highly corrosive to skin, metals, and mucous membranes. Due to its volatility and chemical activity, it must be handled with strict safety protocols, including the use of PPE, chemical storage cabinets, and ventilation systems.

In summary, the glacial acetic acid meaning refers to its anhydrous, highly concentrated form that exhibits maximum purity and reactivity. This form is essential for precise chemical reactions where the presence of water could interfere with yields or safety.

CAS Number Glacial Acetic Acid and Chemical Classification

Every chemical compound is identified with a unique numerical identifier by the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS). The CAS number glacial acetic acid is 64-19-7. This number is used internationally to specify the compound in scientific literature, regulatory documents, shipping labels, and procurement systems.

By referencing the CAS number glacial acetic acid, suppliers and buyers can ensure they are discussing the exact same substance with no ambiguity. It also simplifies the import/export process, as customs and health authorities use CAS numbers to track and regulate hazardous materials.

In addition to the CAS number, acetic acid glacial is also classified under various international transport and safety codes. It falls under UN2789 for transport as a corrosive liquid, packing group II, and is classified as a Class 8 hazardous material under IMDG, IATA, and DOT regulations. It carries an NFPA health hazard rating of 2, a flammability rating of 2, and reactivity of 0, indicating moderate risks that demand responsible handling and storage.

Acetic Acid Glacial Applications Across Key Industries

The versatility of acetic acid glacial makes it an irreplaceable chemical building block in countless industrial processes. In the chemical manufacturing sector, it is used to synthesize vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), which is then polymerized to create adhesives, paints, and coatings. In the plastics industry, it is a raw material for the production of cellulose acetate and polyvinyl acetate resins.

In the pharmaceutical industry, anhydrous acetic acid is used in the synthesis of aspirin, acetaminophen, and other active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Its purity ensures precise control over chemical reactions and formulation standards.

The textile industry uses acetic acid glacial for dyeing processes, helping control pH levels and improve color fixation. In the food sector, a food-grade variant (often diluted) is used as an acidity regulator, preservative, and flavor enhancer—designated as E260 on food labels.

Laboratories use anhydrous acetic acid in buffer solutions, as a solvent in chromatography, and as a reagent in chemical analysis. In each of these applications, the concentration and purity of the acid are critical to success, making glacial acetic acid the preferred choice.

Sourcing Anhydrous Acetic Acid: What Buyers Should Know

When sourcing anhydrous acetic acid, buyers must consider several important factors beyond price. Purity, certification, packaging options, and compliance with transportation regulations are key concerns. Reputable chemical distributors will provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA), Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS or SDS), and label the product with the correct CAS number glacial acetic acid and hazard symbols.

Buyers can purchase acetic acid glacial in quantities ranging from small laboratory bottles to 200-liter drums or bulk tankers. Packaging must be chemical-resistant, typically using HDPE or stainless steel containers. For export or cross-border purchases, ensure your supplier complies with GHS labeling and REACH registration in the EU or TSCA rules in the U.S.

Additionally, assess whether you need industrial-grade or food/pharmaceutical-grade glacial acetic acid, as each grade has its own purification requirements and legal compliance standards. Food-grade material must meet FCC or E260 designations, while USP-grade variants are suitable for medical applications.

Bulk sourcing from certified manufacturers can provide cost advantages. However, buyers must also account for shipping fees, hazardous material handling charges, customs duties, and insurance. Using the CAS number glacial acetic acid simplifies global procurement and inventory management by ensuring consistent product identification across countries and regulatory systems.

Safe Storage and Handling of Acetic Acid Glacial

Due to its corrosive and volatile nature, acetic acid glacial must be stored and handled with caution. It should be kept in cool, well-ventilated environments away from sources of heat and incompatible substances such as oxidizing agents and bases. Storage containers must be sealed tightly and constructed from compatible materials like HDPE or stainless steel.

Emergency response equipment, including eyewash stations, chemical spill kits, and PPE (goggles, gloves, aprons), should be accessible wherever anhydrous acetic acid is used. Personnel must be trained to handle spills, neutralization procedures, and first aid in case of accidental exposure.

Always label containers clearly with the CAS number glacial acetic acid, hazard symbols, and storage guidelines. Segregate this chemical from flammable solvents, alkalis, and oxidizers to prevent dangerous chemical reactions.

Proper handling not only ensures worker safety but also protects the integrity of the product. Even minor contamination with water can affect the reactivity and performance of acetic acid glacial, especially in sensitive pharmaceutical or laboratory processes.

Acetic acid glacial FAQs

What is the exact glacial acetic acid meaning in chemistry?

The glacial acetic acid meaning refers to the anhydrous, pure form of acetic acid that contains little to no water—typically over 99.5% purity. It solidifies slightly below room temperature, forming ice-like crystals, which is why it is called "glacial." This form is essential for industrial and laboratory processes requiring high-purity reagents.

What is the CAS number glacial acetic acid used for?

The CAS number glacial acetic acid is 64-19-7. This number uniquely identifies acetic acid in regulatory, scientific, and commercial documentation. It ensures precise communication between manufacturers, regulators, and buyers and helps avoid confusion with diluted or technical acetic acid products.

Is acetic acid glacial the same as vinegar?

No. Acetic acid glacial is nearly pure acetic acid with over 99% concentration, while vinegar typically contains only 4–8% acetic acid diluted in water. Glacial acetic acid is corrosive and dangerous to handle without protection, while vinegar is safe for food use. They should never be substituted for each other.

What precautions should be taken when using anhydrous acetic acid?

When working with anhydrous acetic acid, always wear appropriate PPE including gloves, goggles, and chemical-resistant aprons. Use it in a well-ventilated area, preferably under a fume hood. Store in tightly sealed containers away from heat and reactive substances. In case of spills, neutralize with sodium bicarbonate and ventilate the area.

How is acetic acid glacial shipped internationally?

Acetic acid glacial is classified as a hazardous chemical and must be shipped under UN2789 regulations as a Class 8 corrosive liquid. It requires certified containers, proper labeling with the CAS number glacial acetic acid, and must comply with IATA, IMDG, or ADR transport standards. Reputable suppliers handle documentation and shipping logistics to ensure legal compliance.

Крижана оцтова кислота Властивості, застосування та небезпеки

В основному, крижана оцтова кислота служить основною сировиною для виробництва багатьох хімічних сполук, таких як оцтовий ангідрид, ацетати та різноманітні пластмаси. Вона також широко використовується у виробництві барвників, фармацевтичних препаратів, а також у харчовій промисловості як консервант. На базі крижаної оцтової кислоти виготовляються оцтові кислоти, які використовуються у приготуванні маринованих продуктів та інших харчових виробів.

Проте, незважаючи на її корисні властивості, крижана оцтова кислота є небезпечною речовиною. Вона може викликати серйозні опіки шкіри та слизових оболонок при контакті. Удихання парів крижаної оцтової кислоти може призвести до роздратування дихальних шляхів, а вищі концентрації можуть викликати серйозні алергічні реакції та навіть отруєння. З цієї причини при роботі з нею слід дотримуватись усіх заходів безпеки, використовувати захисні засоби, такі як рукавички та маски.

Крижана оцтова кислота також є предметом досліджень в галузі екології. Вона може впливати на навколишнє середовище, тому необхідно дотримуватись норм її викидів і утилізації. Науковці вивчають можливості безпечного використання цієї речовини з метою зменшення її негативного впливу на природу.

Таким чином, крижана оцтова кислота - це важлива, але водночас небезпечна речовина, яка має численні застосування в різних галузях. Використання її слід здійснювати з обережністю, дотримуючись усіх стандартів безпеки.