500ml Acetic Anhydride (97%)

Acetic anhydride at 97 percent is a colorless liquid with a sharp odor, supplied as a 500 ml reagent-grade unit. It is the standard acetylating agent in organic synthesis, reacting with alcohols, amines and phenols to give the corresponding acetates and acetamides.

Routine uses include the acetylation of cellulose and other biopolymers, intermediate steps in dye and fine chemical preparation, and general laboratory acetylations where a more reactive reagent than acetic acid is wanted. It hydrolyzes back to acetic acid on contact with water, so it is kept dry and away from incompatible materials. The liquid is corrosive and its vapor is an irritant.