![[logo] US EPA](http://www.epa.gov/epafiles/images/logo_epaseal.gif){kind=logo}
Acetic Acid (044001) Fact Sheet
Related Information
Information related to this page:Issued: 3/01
On This Page
- Description of the Active Ingredient
- Use Sites, Target Pests, and Application Methods
- Assessing Risks to Human Health
- Assessing Risks to the Environment
- Regulatory Information
- Producer Information
- Additional Contact Information
Summary
Acetic acid is a common chemical found in all living organisms. Many people are familiar with with acetic acid in its diluted form--vinegar. Pesticide products containing acetic acid are used in controlling a diverse group of weeds, including some grasses. There are no risks to the public or the environment when the active ingredient is used according to the label. However, applicators are required to use protective equipment to prevent contact with skin and eyes.
- Description of the Active Ingredient
- Use Sites, Target Pests, and Application Methods
- Use Sites: Non-cropland areas such as railroad rights-of way, golf courses, open space, driveways, industrial sites.
- Target pests: Many annual and perennial broadleaf weeds and grasses.
- Application Methods: For best control of annuals, the pesticide product is sprayed on weeds early in the season when there are only a few leaves. The product must contact the leaves to be effective.
- Assessing Risks to Human Health
- Assessing Risks to the Environment
- Regulatory Information
- Producer Information
- Additional Contact Information
Acetic acid (044001) (CAS # 64-19-7)
Acetic acid is found in all living organisms. It is readily broken down to carbon dioxide and water. Vinegar consists of approximately 5% acetic acid and 95% water. This is also the concentration of acetic acid when applied as a pesticide product. To be effective, acetic acid needs to contact the plant leaves; the acidity of the spray solution damages and dries out the leaves.
As a food, acetic acid is not expected to harm the public. Applicators are instructed to use protective equipment to protect against the eye and skin irritation that acids can cause.
No harm is expected to wildlife or the environment if users follow label directions.
Year active ingredient was initially registered (licensed for sale): 1997
Number of end use products (March 2001): 2
Ecoval Technologies, Inc
293 Church Street
Oakville, Ontario, Canada L6J 1N94
Ombudsman, Biopesticides and Pollution Prevention Division (7511P)
Office of Pesticide Programs
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20460