Peracetic Acid

Peracetic acid (also known as peroxyacetic acid, or PAA), is a organic compound with the formula CH3CO3H. This organic peroxide is a colorless liquid with a characteristic acrid odor reminiscent of acetic acid. It can be highly corrosive. Used as a bactericide and fungicide, especially in food processing; as a reagent in making caprolactam and glycerol; as an oxidant for preparing epoxy compounds; as a bleaching agent; a sterilizing agent; and as a polymerization catalyst for polyester resins. (EPA, 1998) Bleaching agent for food starch. Peracetic acid is a component of antimicrobial washes for poultry carcasses and fruit.

Synonyms

Ethaneperoxoic acid, Peroxyacetic acid, Estosteril, Acetic peroxide, Peroxoacetic acid, Monoperacetic acid, Osbon AC, Acetyl hydroperoxide, Hydroperoxide, acetyl, Ethaneperoxic acid

Chemical Formula

C2H4O3

CAS Number

79-21-0