Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) Product Description
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), 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, disinfectant, and cleaning agent. IPA is miscible with water, acetone, and chloroform, making it a versatile compound in various applications across different industries. Its effectiveness in killing bacteria and viruses makes it a popular choice for sanitizing surfaces and equipment.
Uses of Isopropyl Alcohol
- Disinfectant: IPA is commonly used in healthcare settings for disinfecting surfaces, medical instruments, and skin prior to injections.
- Solvent: It is an effective solvent for oils, resins, and various organic compounds, making it useful in laboratories and manufacturing processes.
- Cleaning Agent: IPA is used in household and industrial cleaning products to remove dirt, grease, and grime from surfaces.
- Personal Care Products: It is an ingredient in many personal care products, including hand sanitizers, lotions, and aftershaves.
- Electronics Cleaning: IPA is safe for cleaning electronic components and circuit boards due to its quick evaporation rate and non-conductive properties.
- Automotive Applications: Used for cleaning automotive parts and as a degreaser in maintenance tasks.
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) |
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and flame |
Key Points
- Flammability: IPA is highly flammable; proper safety precautions should be taken when handling.
- Toxicity: Ingestion or excessive inhalation can be harmful; use in well-ventilated areas.
- Environmental Impact: IPA is biodegradable, but care should be taken to prevent large spills.
Isopropyl Alcohol is a versatile and essential chemical in many sectors, providing effective solutions for cleaning, disinfecting, and solvent applications.