Isopropyl Alcohol
2-propanol
I. Basic Information
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), also known as 2-propanol, is a colorless, flammable secondary alcohol with the chemical formula C₃H₈O and CAS number 67-63-0. First synthesized in 1853, it achieved commercial production in 1920 and is now a globally significant chemical, with annual production exceeding 2.3 million tonnes. It is widely recognized as a versatile solvent, disinfectant, and chemical intermediate.
II. Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State & Odor: A colorless, volatile liquid with a pungent odor similar to ethanol.
Key Physical Constants: It has a molecular weight of 60.0950 g/mol, a boiling point of 82.5°C, a melting point of -89.5°C, and a density of approximately 0.785 g/mL at 20°C. Its flash point is 11.7°C (closed cup), classifying it as a flammable liquid.
Solubility & Miscibility: It is fully miscible with water, ethanol, and chloroform, making it an excellent solvent for both polar and non-polar substances. However, unlike ethanol, it is not miscible with salt solutions and can be separated via "salting out".
Reactivity & Hazards: It is flammable, and its vapors can form explosive mixtures with air. It can form unstable peroxides upon prolonged exposure to air or oxidizers, which poses an explosion hazard. It reacts vigorously with strong oxidizers like chromium trioxide.
III. Production Methods
The primary industrial production methods are:
Propylene Hydration: The traditional and dominant method, involving either an indirect sulfuric acid process or a direct catalytic hydration of propylene.
Acetone Hydrogenation: An alternative method where acetone is catalytically hydrogenated to produce IPA. This route has gained prominence due to market dynamics. The final product is often purified to an anhydrous state through azeotropic distillation.
IV. Applications
IPA's versatility stems from its solvent properties and antimicrobial efficacy. Its key applications include:
Industrial Solvent: Used extensively in the manufacture of coatings, inks, resins, and as a cleaning agent for electronics and precision parts.Disinfectant & Antiseptic: Commonly used in rubbing alcohol (typically 70% concentration), hand sanitizers, and surface disinfectants in medical and household settings.
Chemical Intermediate: Serves as a precursor for the production of acetone, isopropyl acetate, and other chemicals.
Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics: Used as a solvent in drug formulations, topical lotions, aftershaves, and other personal care products.
Other Uses: Functions as a fuel additive, de-icing agent, and laboratory reagent.
V. Application Cases
Electronics Manufacturing: High-purity (electronic grade) IPA is critical for cleaning semiconductor wafers and printed circuit boards, effectively removing contaminants without leaving residues.
Healthcare Antisepsis: A 70% aqueous solution of IPA is the standard for skin disinfection prior to injections and for sanitizing small medical instruments due to its rapid bactericidal action.
Household Cleaning: Formulated into glass cleaners and all-purpose sprays, where its fast evaporation and grease-cutting ability provide a streak-free finish.
Industrial Coatings: Incorporated into paints and varnishes as a solvent to adjust viscosity and drying time, improving application and finish quality.
Shanghai Better Chemical Co., Ltd. was established in 2005, specializing in fatty alcohols, fatty acids, glycerin, white oil, and petroleum jelly. These products serve a wide range of industries, including personal care, flavor & fragrance, textiles, plastics, food, pharmaceuticals, stationery, construction, and coatings. With 21 years of professional experience, the company has earned consistent recognition across the industry and established partnerships with over 4,000 clients. It maintains a skilled technical team, efficient warehouse operations, high-quality pre- and after-sales services, and lightning-fast logistics. We look forward to collaborating with you. For inquiries, please call: +86 21 5102 9963.