We explain what acetate is in chemistry and what its industrial applications are. Also, what is cellulose acetate, and its uses.
What is acetate?
In chemistry, an anion or molecule negatively charged at the base of the acetic acid, that is, vinegar, and is endowed with a carboxy group (-COOH). It is a very common radical in the industry, especially in the manufacture of cellulose acetate, a light and transparent fiber obtained by subjecting the cellulose to acetic anhydride. Every day, when we talk about acetate, we refer to this last material.
Cellulose acetate (actually cellulose acetate ester) was discovered in 1865, but the ideal techniques for its manipulation were not perfected until the early 20th century.
Its first application was within the textile industry and dyestuff, but it soon served as a replacement for highly flammable celluloid film in the film industry. cinema and the Photography, and in 1918 its production intensified as a supply for the aeronautical industry of the Allied countries within the framework of the First World War. Later it would be used in countless industries, such as in the manufacture of records, glasses, fountain pens and even as a craft material.
However, cellulose acetate is not the only acetate used in industry, iron acetate, mercuric acetate or lead acetate are also used, each one endowed with unique chemical traits and properties, as well as practical applications. different.
acetate applications
The following are some of the applications of acetates:
- Cellulose acetate is used in the traditional film and photography industry for the manufacture of blank film and slides.
- Nitrocellulose acetate (or vinyl acetate) is used in the recording industry to coat the aluminum foil inside vinyl records.
- Cellulose acetate is used to produce the transparent sheets that are fed into non-digital overhead projectors. It is also used for graphic work, crafts and cartographic or planimetric copies.
- Sodium acetate is a type of salt used as a neutralizer of pH in the textile and leather industry, and in the chemical synthesis of other substances such as sodium bicarbonate or sodium hydroxide.
- Lead acetate, highly toxic, It serves as raw material in obtaining dyes for hair, clothing or for printer cartridges.
- Iron acetate is used to make varnishes and in the composition of certain flavorings.
- Calcium acetate is used in the treatment of certain kidney diseases, since it is used to control phosphorus levels in the blood.