Acetic anhydride (chemical formula: (CH3CO)2O) is the simplest isolable anhydride of a carboxylic acid, is widely used as a reagent in organic synthesis. It has an internal asymmetric structure, leading to its potent electrophilicity. In organic chemistry, it is mainly used in acetylation for the manufacture of commercially significant materials, e.g. it can be used for the conversion of cellulose to cellulose acetate and aspirin. It can also be used as a wood preservative. In starch industry, it is a common acetylation compound for acetylation of monoglyceride. It is also an esterification agent for the production of modified starches. It is produced by carbonylation of methyl acetate or the reaction between ketene and acetic acid.