Sodium acetate, sodium ethanoate or sodium acetate with the chemical formula CH ₃ COONa, is a colorless and odorless compound, soluble in water, ethanol, methanol and hydrazine. This substance is a sodium salt of acetic acid. In the next article, we will introduce sodium acetate and its uses.

Sodium acetate is obtained from the reaction of acetic acid and sodium bicarbonate:

CH ₃ COOH + NaHCO ₃ → CH ₃ COONa + H2CO ₃

Carbonic acid + sodium acetate → sodium bicarbonate + acetic acid

Applications of sodium acetate

Sodium acetate has many applications in various industries. In the following, we will mention some of these applications.

Industrial applications of sodium acetate

Sodium acetate is used in the textile industry to neutralize sulfuric acid waste. It is also used in the production process of cotton clothes to prevent the accumulation of static electricity.

• Application of sodium acetate to increase the life of concrete

Sodium acetate is used in concrete to reduce water damage. This material is used as an insulator for concrete. Sodium acetate is cheaper and less dangerous to the environment than epoxy, which was previously used to make concrete resistant to water.

• Application of sodium acetate in food industry

Sodium acetate is used as a seasoning and flavoring in the food industry. Sometimes it is used in the form of sodium diacetate. It is usually used in chips to taste vinegar and salt.

• The use of sodium acetate in the production of buffer solution

Sodium acetate is the conjugate base of acetic acid and the solution of these two can be used as a buffer solution to keep the pH constant. The buffer solution resists pH changes and will keep the pH constant.

• Application of sodium acetate in heating pads

Sodium acetate is used in heating pads, hand warmers and hot ices. Sodium acetate hydrate crystals are used for this purpose.

Safety tips and side effects of sodium acetate

Sodium acetate is a corrosive and toxic substance. This material is flammable. In case of contact with skin or eyes, it can cause burning and redness. This substance is poisonous if eaten and it is necessary to consult a doctor.

When working with this material, it is necessary to use gloves, coveralls and special glasses.

To store this material, it is necessary to keep sodium acetate away from strong acids.