Materials selection — storing refined (glacial) acetic acid Storage vessels for refined (glacial) acetic acid are commonly fabricated from which material to ensure corrosion resistance and product integrity?

Introduction / Context:
Chemical compatibility between stored liquids and tank materials is central to safety and quality. Glacial (refined) acetic acid is corrosive toward many ferrous alloys but is compatible with certain nonferrous metals.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Product: refined (glacial) acetic acid, water content very low.
• Service: ambient to moderately elevated temperatures, typical storage conditions.

Concept / Approach:
Aluminium forms a protective oxide film that resists attack by glacial acetic acid. Carbon steels suffer corrosion (especially in wet acetic acid), copper is attacked forming acetates, and pure nickel is not the standard economical choice for bulk storage compared with aluminium or stainless steels.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Screen materials by known compatibility charts.Eliminate copper and carbon steel due to corrosion concerns.Select aluminium as a common, field-proven choice for glacial acetic acid tanks.

Verification / Alternative check:
Industry practice and material compatibility guides list aluminium and certain stainless steels as preferred materials for dry acetic acid service.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Copper: susceptible to acetate formation and corrosion.
• High-carbon steel: corrosion risk, especially with moisture.
• Nickel: good resistance but not a typical economical storage tank material in this service compared to aluminium.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing behavior in dry vs wet acetic acid; the presence of water can markedly change corrosion rates.

Final Answer:
Aluminium