Monoacetin

Chemical properties

Clear colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid

The Uses of Monoacetin

Glycerol monoacetate is used for production of tanning leather and dye. It is also used as a solvent.

The Uses of Monoacetin

In manufacture of smokeless powder and dynamite; as a solvent for basic dyes; in tanning leather.

What are the applications of Application

Monoacetin has found some use as a flavor solvent (rarely as a perfume solvent).

Production Methods

Monoacetin is manufactured by heating glycerol with acetic acid.

Synthesis Reference(s)

Journal of the American Chemical Society, 82, p. 4883, 1960 DOI: 10.1021/ja01503a033

General Description

Clear colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid with a characteristic odor.

Air & Water Reactions

Very hygroscopic. Soluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Monoacetin may hydrolyze in acid or alkaline aqueous solutions. Flammable and/or toxic gases are generated by the combination of alcohols with alkali metals, nitrides, and strong reducing agents. They react with oxoacids and carboxylic acids to form esters plus water. Oxidizing agents convert them to aldehydes or ketones. They exhibit both weak acid and weak base behavior. They may initiate the polymerization of isocyanates and epoxides. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides.

Fire Hazard

Monoacetin is probably combustible.