1. Agrochemicals 

• Herbicide: Acetic acid, in the form of diluted solutions like vinegar, is a non-selective contact herbicide. It works by rupturing cell membranes in plant tissues, leading to dehydration and death. The acid needs direct contact with the foliage to be effective.
• PH regulator: It is used as a pH regulator in agrochemicals primarily by lowering the pH of solutions, such as those used in hydroponics or liquid fertilizers. 

2. Paints, Coatings & Adhesive

• Precursor: It serves as a precursor for key raw materials like vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), which is used in the production of polymers.
• Esters key component: It is used to produce various esters, such as ethyl acetate and butyl acetate. These esters are commonly used as solvents in paints and coatings. 
• Process solvent: It also serves as a solvent in the production of other chemicals, like purified terephthalic acid (PTA), which is an intermediate in polyester production.

3. Food & Healthcare Ingredients

• Preservation: Due to its antimicrobial properties, it prevents the growth of harmful bacteria, yeasts, and molds, thereby extending the shelf life of foods like pickles, sauces, and fermented vegetables. 
• PH control: As an acidulant, it helps maintain the optimal pH of food products, which can be crucial for taste, texture, and microbial stability. 
• Pickling: It is widely used in pickling, helping to preserve food while also adding a characteristic sour flavor. 

4. Flavours & Fragrances

• Flavor enhancement: It imparts a tangy and sour taste, making it a common ingredient in condiments, salad dressings, and other foods. 
• Synthesizing agents: plays a crucial role in synthesizing esters, which are commonly used in flavors and fragrances, through a chemical reaction called esterification. In this process, acetic acid reacts with an alcohol, often in the presence of an acid catalyst, to produce an ester and water. These esters, depending on their structure, can have a wide range of pleasant odors, making them desirable components in perfumes and flavoring agents.

5. Pharmaceuticals

• Solvent and Reagent: It is utilized as a solvent and reagent in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other pharmaceutical products.
• pH regulation: In liquid pharmaceutical formulations, acetic acid is used to adjust the pH to acidic levels, which can improve the stability and shelf life of the drug.
• Antimicrobial agent: Possesses antimicrobial properties, making it suitable for use in ear drops and other topical preparations designed to treat infections.

6. Polymers & Resins

• Key Component: It is a primary component in the production of VAM, which is then used to create polymers like PVA, widely used in paints, adhesives, and coatings. It is involved in the acetylation of cellulose, resulting in cellulose acetate, a polymer used in textile fibers, photographic films, and other industrial applications.
• Solvent: It serves as a solvent in the manufacturing of various resins and polymers, aiding in their production and processing.