Acetic anhydride (chemical formula: (CH3CO)2O) is the simplest
isolable anhydride of a carboxylic acid, is widely used as a reagent
in organic synthesis. It has an internal asymmetric structure,
leading to its potent electrophilicity. In organic chemistry, it is
mainly used in acetylation for the manufacture of commercially
significant materials, e.g. it can be used for the conversion of
cellulose to cellulose acetate and aspirin. It can also be used as a
wood preservative. In starch industry, it is a common acetylation
compound for acetylation of monoglyceride. It is also an
esterification agent for the production of modified starches. It is
produced by carbonylation of methyl acetate or the reaction between
ketene and acetic acid.
