Acetate Physical and Chemical Properties
topic
Acetate properties: tenacity 1.2-1.4 g/den (dry), 0.8-1.0 g/den (wet), elongation 25-35%, moisture regain 6-6.5% (low vs. 11-14% for viscose), density 1.32 g/cm³, silk-like luster, excellent drape, thermoplastic (heat-settable), quick-drying, hypoallergenic, resistant to mildew and moths, but sensitivity to alkaline solutions (pH >8 causes deacetylation), and heat sensitivity (safe ironing <150°C).
Role
Low moisture absorption provides quick-drying and dimensional stability advantages, while thermoplasticity enables shape retention and pleating impossible with regenerated cellulose, positioning acetate between cellulosics and synthetics.