Acetic acid from lactic acid
Hello guys!
I've discovered an interesting reaction this morning and since I didn't find it on Google I decided to post it here as it might be of some interest.
I've combined impure FeSO4 solution with 80% food-grade lactic acid and added 30% H2O2. This started bubbling so violently, that I had to transport
the test-tube into the sink. After the reaction, there were maybe just 2 drops of the liquid left in the test-tube! And acetic acid smell everywhere.
I already knew that KMnO4 can oxidize lactic acid into acetaldehyde, but Fenton's reagent is probably even stronger oxidizer, non-selective.
You can also try it, it is very simple and reasonably safe, just don't add the peroxide all at once like I did! 
Rest In Pieces!
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