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Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology

Acetic Anhydride

Standard Article

Frank S. Wagner Jr.¹

¹Nandina Corporation

DOI: 10.1002/0471238961.0103052023010714.a03.pub2
Article Online Posting Date: July 19, 2002

Abstract | Full Text: PDF (8797K)

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Abstract

Acetic anhydride (CH₃CO)₂O, is a mobile, colorless liquid that has an acrid odor. It is the largest commercially produced carboxylic acid anhydride. Its chief industrial application is for acetylation reactions in the production of cellulose acetates. It is also used in many other applications in organic synthesis. Manufacturing processes include the acetic acid process, the acetaldehyde oxidation process, and methyl acetate carbonylation. Acetic anhydride penetrates the skin, forming burns and blisters.

Keywords: acetic anhydride; acetic acid; acetaldehyde oxidation; methyl acetate carboxylation; cellulose acetates; coatings; pesticides; aspirin; acetaminophen acetylation; solvent