10% Acetic Acid

Acetic acid, a fundamental chemical in both industrial and laboratory settings, is widely known for its versatility and effectiveness. When diluted to a 10% acetic acid solution, it finds numerous applications in chemical processing, cleaning, healthcare, and the food industry. This comprehensive guide delves into every aspect of 10% acetic acid, from its properties, preparation, safety measures, and uses to storage guidelines. Whether you are a professional chemist or an industry practitioner, this guide will be your go-to reference for efficiently handling and using 10% acetic acid.

Introduction to 10% Acetic Acid

10% acetic acid is a diluted aqueous solution consisting of 10% glacial acetic acid and 90% distilled water, measured either by volume or weight. Acetic acid, represented by the chemical formula CH₃COOH, is an organic compound responsible for vinegar’s distinct sour flavor and sharp odor.

While glacial acetic acid is the pure, concentrated form (99–100% purity), the 10% solution is much safer to handle, making it a preferred concentration in various household, laboratory, and industrial applications.

Chemical and Physical Properties of 10% Acetic Acid

• Molecular Formula: CH₃COOH
• Concentration: 10% w/v or v/v in water
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Odor: Sharp, vinegar-like, pungent smell
• pH: Approximately 2.5
• Boiling Point: ~100°C (due to water content)
• Density: ~1.01 g/mL at room temperature
• Solubility: Completely miscible with water and polar solvents

These properties make it an ideal candidate for acid-base reactions, pH adjustments, and antimicrobial treatments.

How to Prepare 10% Acetic Acid Solution

Materials Needed:

• Glacial acetic acid (≥99%)
• Distilled water
• Volumetric flask or measuring cylinder
• Protective gear (gloves, goggles, lab coat)

Procedure:

1. Calculate the required volume of glacial acetic acid using the dilution formula:
   C₁V₁ = C₂V₂, where:
   • C₁ = 100 (concentration of glacial acetic acid)
   • C₂ = 10 (desired concentration)
   • V₂ = final volume of solution
   • V₁ = volume of glacial acetic acid required
2. For 1 liter of 10% solution:
   V₁ = (10 × 1000) / 100 = 100 mL
   Add 100 mL of glacial acetic acid to 900 mL of distilled water slowly, with stirring.

⚠️ Important: Always add acid to water, never the reverse, to avoid violent exothermic reactions.

Applications of 10% Acetic Acid

1. Industrial Uses

• Textile and dyeing industries use 10% acetic acid as a mordant and for pH control during dye fixation.
• In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used for buffering and sterilization purposes.
• It acts as a chemical reagent for the production of synthetic fibers, plastics, and esters.

2. Laboratory Applications

• Used in titrations involving weak acids.
• Acts as a solvent for organic and inorganic compounds.
• Employed as a fixative in histology.

3. Medical and Clinical Applications

• Commonly used as a topical antiseptic.
• A 10% acetic acid solution is used in otoscopy for identifying fungal ear infections.
• Applied for cervical cancer screening in Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) procedures.

4. Food Industry

• Used in the pickling process for vegetables and meats.
• Aids in preserving food by inhibiting microbial growth.

5. Cleaning and Disinfection

• Effective as a household cleaner and degreaser.
• Used in scale removal and surface sanitation in food processing plants.

Safety and Handling of 10% Acetic Acid

Though much less corrosive than glacial acetic acid, the 10% solution still poses health hazards if mishandled.

Precautions:

• Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing.
• Use in well-ventilated areas or under a fume hood.
• Store away from bases, oxidizers, and flammable materials.

First Aid Measures:

• Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical help if irritation persists.
• If skin contact occurs, wash the affected area with water for a minimum of 15 minutes.
• Eye contact: Flush eyes thoroughly; seek immediate medical attention.
• Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Rinse the mouth and seek medical advice immediately.

Storage Guidelines

• Store in tightly sealed polyethylene or glass containers.
• Label containers clearly with concentration and hazard information.
• Keep in a cool, dry, well-ventilated storage area, away from incompatible substances.
• Keep the solution away from direct sunlight and high temperatures, as these conditions can cause it to degrade over time.

Environmental Impact

10% acetic acid is biodegradable and considered environmentally benign in small quantities. However, large-scale disposal should be managed carefully:

• Neutralize with sodium bicarbonate or lime before disposal.
• Follow local environmental regulations for acid disposal.
• Avoid discharge into natural water bodies to prevent pH imbalances affecting aquatic life.

Conclusion

10% acetic acid is a powerful yet manageable chemical solution with diverse applications across multiple sectors. Its effectiveness, ease of preparation, and low toxicity (compared to concentrated forms) make it an indispensable resource. By understanding how to handle, store, and use it properly, one can maximize its utility while ensuring safety and environmental responsibility.