Acetic anhydride: Learn about acetic anhydride

Learn about acetic anhydride, a colorless, pungent liquid that is used as an acetylation reagent and in the manufacture of carbonic compounds. Find out how it is prepared from acetic acid, acetyl chloride, sodium acetate and other methods, and what are its chemical reactions and properties. Acetic anhydride is a carboxylic acid anhydride commonly used for the acetylation of amines and alcohols. [1] It undergoes exothermic reaction on addition of water to form acetic acid. [2] Acetic anhydride is a colorless liquid that smells like acetic acid and is widely used in organic synthesis. Learn about its structure, properties, production, uses, hazards, and history from this comprehensive article. Acetic anhydride for synthesis. CAS No. 108-24-7, EC Number 203-564-8. - Find MSDS or SDS, a COA, data sheets and more information.