Isopropyl Alcohol Product Description
Isopropyl alcohol, also known as isopropanol or 2-propanol, is a colorless, flammable chemical compound with a strong odor. It is a type of alcohol that is widely used as a solvent, antiseptic, and cleaning agent. Isopropyl alcohol is miscible with water, acetone, and chloroform, making it a versatile compound in various applications. It is commonly found in concentrations of 70% and 99%, with the 70% solution being particularly effective for disinfection purposes due to its ability to penetrate cell walls more effectively.
Uses of Isopropyl Alcohol
- Disinfectant: Effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it ideal for sanitizing surfaces and medical equipment.
- Solvent: Used in the formulation of paints, coatings, and inks, as well as in the extraction of essential oils.
- Cleaning Agent: Commonly used for cleaning electronic devices, glass surfaces, and removing adhesive residues.
- Personal Care Products: Found in hand sanitizers, aftershaves, and other cosmetic products due to its antiseptic properties.
- Laboratory Reagent: Utilized in various chemical reactions and as a solvent in laboratories.
Technical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₃H₈O |
| Molecular Weight | 60.1 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Odor | Strong, alcohol-like |
| Boiling Point | 82.6 °C (180.7 °F) |
| Melting Point | -89.5 °C (-129.1 °F) |
| Density | 0.786 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 11.7 °C (53.1 °F) |
| Solubility in Water | Miscible |
| Vapor Pressure | 33.5 mmHg at 20 °C |
| pH | Neutral (approximately 7) |
Key Points
- Isopropyl alcohol is a highly effective disinfectant and cleaning agent.
- It is widely used in both industrial and household applications.
- The 70% concentration is preferred for disinfection due to its efficacy.
- It is important to handle isopropyl alcohol with care due to its flammability and potential health hazards when inhaled or ingested.
Isopropyl alcohol remains an essential compound in various fields, including healthcare, manufacturing, and personal care, due to its versatile properties and effectiveness.