Acetic acid (C2H4O2) is carboxylic acid. Colorless as a liquid or solid, it has a pungent odor and his highly corrosive. Acetic acid can affect metals, with explosive results, as well as plastics, rubber, and coatings. Used in the manufacture of a number of chemical compounds, plastics, textiles, pharmaceuticals, dyes, insecticides, and photographic chemicals, acetic acid a chemical reagent. There are many industrial applications for this compound. Hygroscopic, meaning that it absorbs moisture, acetic acid mixes with carbon tetrachloride, ether, ethyl alcohol, glycerol, and water. It also reacts with oxidants and bases and solvent for gums, resins and volatile oils.. Furthermore, it is used as an antimicrobial agent, latex coagulant and oil-well acidifier.
Acetic acid can be scrubbed with water or alkali solutions. The choice depends on how concentrated the acid in the gas stream is and the removal efficiency required. For systems with low flow and release the pollutant infrequently, a once-through water scrubber will sufficiently dispose of the toxin. For systems with heavier production of acetic acid, a recirculated alkali solution is the better method of disposal.
