Ammonium acetate. Obtaining laboratory and industrial methods. Application

A chemical compound of the NH4C2H3O2 composition is known in wide circles as ammonium acetate. In appearance, this crystalline substance is transparent or white in color. The product for its production is acetic acid. Ammonium acetate is produced by reacting the acid with ammonia. Being a substance easily accessible and relatively cheap, this compound is used as a food additive (E264) or preservative.
Among the physical properties, hygroscopicity is distinguished. It has ammonium acetate. The preparation of this substance in laboratory conditions is possible in several ways. It is possible to carry out the reaction of concentrated (ice) acetic acid and ammonium carbonate (ammonium carbonate). The result of the reaction is ammonium acetate and unstable carbonic acid, which in a short time turns into carbon dioxide and water.
The next reaction involves the addition of 80% acetic acid to 10% ammonia (ammonia). Low temperatures are required to carry out the reaction. Lower the flask with reagents into the container with ice, vigorously shaking it. By evaporating the filtrate, ammonium acetate is obtained.
For the third reaction, nitrile of acetic acid or acetonitrile is used. It is heated with water. Among industrial processes, a reaction was found where ammonium acetate was prepared from acetic acid by reaction with an aqueous ammonia solution.

Among the methods for the production of ammonium acetate, there can be isolated a reaction in which this compound is a by-product in the treatment of wood by chemical means, ammonia. The main goal of this reaction is the diacylation of cellulose.
A remarkable feature of ammonium acetate is its ability to decompose at a temperature of 112 ° C to acetamide and water. This reaction is often cited as an example of decomposition of salt under relatively low temperatures.
Ammonium acetate is used in industry and laboratory conditions as a component of liquids used against icing. The food industry has found in it an effective preservative. It is also used as a reagent for some types of organic synthesis. Laboratory-research works consider the consumption of ammonium acetate as a component of buffer solutions and in the precipitation of proteins.
Techniques for drawing a picture on a fabric or painting with the use of ammonium acetate have been developed. It is used in the production of antibiotics and other products of the pharmaceutical industry. It is also widely used in the production of foam rubber, plastics, vinyl.
The use of ammonium acetate for industrial purposes implies its transportation and storage in large volumes. Typically, the crystalline powder is packed in special woven bags or paper boxes. For storage, dry rooms are used, where this substance is in a sealed condition in the original packaging. The substance is not toxic and does not pose a health hazard to service personnel. Precautions for handling this compound suggest protection of the eyes and skin.
If the substance gets on the surface of the mucous membrane, the first help is an abundant rinse with clean water. After working with ammonium acetate, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
In the fire hazard, the compound in question is not dangerous. It is not explosive and does not easily ignite. The domestic chemical industry has established the release of the substance in sufficient quantities to meet the needs of production. In addition, supplies of ammonium acetate are coming from abroad. Traditionally, China is also the main importer here.