What is Acetic Acid?
Acetic Acid is a colourless, organic compound with the chemical formula of CH3OOH. When it is undiluted, it is commonly known as "glacial acetic acid", but most businesses sell it as an 80% solution. Other names include Ethanoic Acid, Hydrogen Acetate and Methane Carboxylic Acid.
Supermarkets traditionally sell Acetic Acid at 4-5% concentration as vinegar. As such, you can see Acetic Acid as a flavouring agent and food preservative. Its acidic nature inhibits bacterial growth to keep food safe from contamination.
Acetic Acid is manufactured in two ways: synthetically and by bacterial fermentation. Although only 10% of production is by bacterial method, it is a vital step for manufacturing food pure Acetic Acid in many locations. The synthetic route occurs through methanol carbonylation, the reaction between methanol and carbon monoxide.
As mentioned, it can also be used as a flavouring, imparting a distinctive sour note to foods. Because of this, Acetic Acid is in sauces, marinades, dressings and during the pickling process. Within the medical field, Acetic is a tool for inhibiting bacterial growth.
A Birmingham University study [1] found that even low concentrations of acetic Acid actively inhibited the growth of pathogens based on clinical testing. For reference, Kilo does not recommend the self-application of Acetic Acid by non-medically trained professionals.
Finally, in industrial groups, Acetic Acid is used as a product in descaling, rust removal and as a critical component in adhesives and paints.
Acetic Acid at Kilo Ltd.
Here at Kilo, we stock Acetic Acid in 25kg polys and at an 80% concentration on-site. We also trade regularly in different concentrations and in various pack sizes (200L Drums and IBCs) to suit your needs as effectively as possible.
If you would like any prices or further information, please feel free call, email or use the links on our site. We shall provide you with information, pricing and support.
Specifications, MSDS's and more are available upon request. Just click the button on the side of the window.
| Foods | | | Pickling, Sauces, Seasoning, Snacks, Baked Goods |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial | | | Substrates, Solvents, Metal Finishing, Inks & Dyes, Laundry Cleaners, Rubber/Plastics |
| Pharmaceutical | | | Antiseptic, Cancer Screenings, Infections, Reduce Blood Sugar |
Disclaimer:
This information is provided as a guide and is by no means legally binding. Suggestions on dosage rates, specific applications and anything else related to detailed quality information can be provided by our quality team or requested directly to our manufacturer.