ethanoate

Negative ion derived from ethanoic (acetic) acid; any salt containing this ion. In photography, acetate film is a non-flammable film made of cellulose ethanoate. In textiles, it is known as acetate, and is most commonly known in the form of a synthetic fibre which can be woven or knitted to produce a variety of different fabrics including satin, moire, and taffeta. Fabrics made from acetate absorb moisture, do not shrink, and are cheaper to produce than natural fibres, but they also tend to attract dirt and can be damaged by heat. Acetate filaments are also used to make filters for cigarettes.

To produce acetate, cellulose is treated with acetic acid in a process called acetylation. This forms a thick solution which is forced through small holes and solidified, and then, through the process of spinning, continuous filaments of acetate are produced.