Peracetic acid is produced by reacting acetic acid with hydrogen peroxide in a catalyst‑driven, temperature‑controlled reactor, then stabilizing the mixture before packaging.
Basic chemistry of the reaction
The core reaction is CH₃COOH + H₂O₂ → CH₃CO₃H + H₂O. Sulfuric acid catalyses the process, shifting the equilibrium toward peracetic acid and increasing the reaction rate. The reaction is exothermic, so heat must be managed carefully.
Key reaction conditions
- Temperature: 20–30 °C keeps the rate high while limiting decomposition.
- Acid to peroxide ratio: 1:1 to 1:2 by weight, depending on desired concentration.
- Reaction time: several hours to a full day, monitored until conversion plateaus.
Raw material preparation
Use food‑grade or industrial‑grade acetic acid (80–99 %) and hydrogen peroxide (30–50 %). Verify purity to avoid impurities that could destabilise the product. Calibrated scales and flow meters keep the ratios accurate.
Manufacturing process steps
- Load reactor with acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, add sulfuric acid catalyst.
- Agitate continuously to ensure thorough mixing.
- Control temperature with a jacketed vessel and cooling system.
- Once conversion reaches the target, add stabilisers such as chelating agents.
- Cool the mixture to extend shelf life and reduce vapor pressure.
- Transfer to storage tanks or fill containers for distribution.
Stabilisation and packaging
Stabilisers prevent peracetic acid from decomposing during storage and transport. Common choices are chelators or a small excess of acid. Packaging materials must resist corrosion; HDPE vials or stainless‑steel tanks are typical. Venting and hazard labeling are mandatory.
Quality control measures
- Test concentration by titration or spectrophotometry.
- Check pH and verify it stays within the 2–4 range for stability.
- Confirm no residual hydrogen peroxide remains.
- Discard or reprocess batches that fall outside specifications.
Safety considerations
Both reactants and the product are corrosive and can cause burns. Hydrogen peroxide at high concentrations can explode if overheated or contaminated. Facilities require proper ventilation, emergency showers, eye‑wash stations, and chemical‑resistant PPE. Stainless steel or compatible plastics are used for all equipment that contacts the chemicals.