Asetyylianhydriidi

Asetyylianhydriidi is the chemical name used in Estonian for acetic anhydride (C4H6O3). It is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor and is highly reactive. The compound is the anhydride of acetic acid, meaning it is formed by the removal of water from two molecules of acetic acid. Asetyylianhydriidi is soluble in common organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform, and it is miscible with water at elevated temperatures.

Commercial synthesis of acetic anhydride typically proceeds by the oxidation of acetyl chloride or by the dehydration of acetic acid using phosphoric or sulfuric acid as a catalyst. In laboratory practice, it can be generated in situ by the reaction of acetyl chloride with a sample of sodium acetate or via the acid-catalyzed condensation of acetic acid at high temperature. The isolated product is typically purified by distillation under reduced pressure.

The main industrial application of asetyylianhydriidi is in the production of cellulose acetate for photographic film, plastics, and fiber. It is also widely used as a acetylating reagent in organic synthesis, particularly for the preparation of acetylated sugars, steroids, and the esterification of alcohols and amines. In the fragrance industry, it serves as a solvent and is used in the synthesis of various aroma compounds.

This compound is corrosive and can cause severe burns upon contact with skin or eye tissues. It is also a strong irritant to the respiratory tract, and inhalation may produce respiratory distress. Appropriate personal protective equipment, proper ventilation, and careful handling are mandatory when working with asetyylianhydriidi.