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: Isopropyl alcohol is widely used in healthcare settings for disinfecting surfaces and medical instruments due to its antimicrobial properties.
- Solvent: It serves as a solvent for oils, resins, and various organic compounds, making it useful in the manufacturing of paints, coatings, and adhesives.
- Cleaning Agent: Isopropyl alcohol is effective in removing dirt, grease, and grime from surfaces, making it a popular choice for household and industrial cleaning products.
- Personal Care Products: It is commonly found in hand sanitizers, rubbing alcohol, and other personal care items due to its antiseptic properties.
- Electronics Cleaning: Isopropyl alcohol is used to clean electronic components and circuit boards, as it evaporates quickly and leaves no residue.
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 | 7 (neutral) |
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and flame |
Key Points
- Isopropyl alcohol is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in various industries.
- It is effective as a disinfectant, solvent, and cleaning agent.
- The technical properties of isopropyl alcohol make it suitable for both industrial and personal use.
- Proper storage and handling are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.