Colorless liquid with a fragrant aroma. Relative density 0.93. Melting point 98.1 ℃. Boiling point 57 ℃. Flash point -10 ℃. The refractive index is 1.3594. Vaporization heat is 410.8J/g. Specific heat capacity 2.1 J/(g. ℃). Vapor pressure (20 ℃) 22 64kPa. It is miscible with alcohols and ethers, with a solubility of 31% in water 9g/100mL (20 ℃). Easy to hydrolyze. Flammable.

Nitrocellulose and cellulose acetate are fast drying solvents used in paint coatings. It is also used in the manufacturing of synthetic leather and fragrances, as well as as as as an extractant for oils and fats. It is still the raw material for manufacturing dyes and drugs.