What Is Acetal?
Acetal is a generic term for a compound having a structure in which two identical carbons have an ether bond and is generally represented by the structural formula RCH(OR’)2. It is also used as an abbreviation for diacetyl of acetaldehyde, a typical compound with such a structure, i.e., 1,1-diethoxyethane.
The latter, 1,1-diethoxyethane, is a colorless volatile liquid and is classified as a flammable liquid, eye irritant, and specific target organ toxic (single exposure) in the GHS classification. In addition, it is designated as a hazardous and flammable substance under the Industrial Safety and Health Law and as a Class 4 Inflammable Liquid under the Fire Service Law.
Uses of Acetal
Acetals are commonly used as raw materials for resins and as a protective intermediate in organic synthesis. 1,1-Diethoxyethane, which has acetal as an abbreviation, is used as a raw material for organic solvents and synthetic fragrances.
Resins with acetal structure are generally called acetal resins or polyacetal and are produced by polymerization of the monomer formaldehyde. It is one of the most widely used polymers as an engineering plastic with excellent strength, modulus, and impact resistance.