Chemical Properties
Clear colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid
Uses
Glycerol monoacetate is used for production of tanning leather and dye. It is also used as a solvent.
Uses
In manufacture of smokeless powder and dynamite; as a solvent for basic dyes; in tanning leather.
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.
