High-purity industrial solvent, disinfectant, and cleaning agent
Isopropyl Alcohol (CAS No: 67-63-0), also known as isopropanol or IPA, is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sharp odor. It is the second simplest member of the alcohol family and is widely used as a versatile solvent in industrial and medical applications.
Isopropyl alcohol is miscible with water, ethanol, and ether, making it indispensable in disinfectants, cleaning products, and the electronics industry. Its relatively low toxicity makes it a preferred choice for many applications.
Isopropyl alcohol has a wide range of industrial, medical, and consumer applications:
Used as an effective disinfectant at 60-70% concentration in hospitals, laboratories, and household cleaning.
Removes grease and dirt from computer components, circuit boards, and sensitive electronic devices.
Used as a solvent and carrier in ointments, lotions, and other pharmaceutical products.
Acts as a paint thinner, resin solvent, and surface preparation agent.
Used in DNA extraction, microscope lens cleaning, and laboratory equipment disinfection.
Used as a brake fluid cleaner, windshield antifreeze, and fuel system cleaner.
Property | Value | Unit | Test Method |
---|---|---|---|
Chemical Formula | C₃H₈O | - | - |
CAS Number | 67-63-0 | - | - |
EC Number | 200-661-7 | - | - |
Molecular Weight | 60.10 | g/mol | - |
Appearance | Colorless liquid | - | Visual |
Odor | Sharp, alcoholic | - | Olfactometry |
Density (20°C) | 0.785-0.787 | g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
Boiling Point | 82.6 | °C | ASTM D1078 |
Melting Point | -89.5 | °C | ASTM D1015 |
Flash Point | 12 | °C | ASTM D93 |
Autoignition Temperature | 399 | °C | ASTM E659 |
Vapor Pressure (20°C) | 4.4 | kPa | ASTM D2879 |
Viscosity (20°C) | 2.04 | cP | ASTM D445 |
pH Value | 6-7 | - | ASTM E70 |
Purity (GC) | ≥99.7 | % | ASTM D3545 |
Water Content | ≤0.2 | % | ASTM E203 |
Flammable Eye and skin irritation Narcotic effect
Isopropyl alcohol degrades moderately quickly in the environment and is biodegradable. It is moderately toxic to aquatic organisms if released into water sources. Its high evaporation rate minimizes persistence in aquatic environments.
Isopropyl alcohol is primarily produced via two methods: direct hydration of propylene (adding water) or indirect hydration of propylene with sulfuric acid. The direct hydration method is commonly used in industrial-scale production.
Isopropyl alcohol (C₃H₈O) is a secondary alcohol, while ethyl alcohol (C₂H₅OH) is a primary alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is a stronger solvent but is not safe for consumption. For disinfection, 70% isopropyl alcohol is more effective than 70% ethyl alcohol.
Isopropyl alcohol is safe for most plastics but may cloud or dissolve certain types, such as polystyrene, polycarbonate, and acrylic. Polyethylene and polypropylene are generally resistant.
When stored properly in sealed containers, isopropyl alcohol has no defined shelf life. However, in open containers, its concentration may decrease over time due to water absorption.
Wash with plenty of water and soap. Prolonged contact may cause skin dryness, so using a moisturizer can be helpful. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.