Acetone
High-purity industrial solvent and chemical intermediate
Overview
Acetone (CAS No: 67-64-1), also known as propanone or dimethyl ketone, is a colorless, volatile, flammable liquid. It is the simplest and smallest ketone in organic chemistry. Widely used as a versatile solvent in industrial applications.
Acetone is miscible with water, ethanol, ether, and many organic liquids in all proportions. This property makes it indispensable in industrial cleaning, paint removal, and chemical manufacturing processes.
Applications
Acetone has a wide range of industrial and consumer applications:
Industrial Cleaning
Cleaning of machine parts, metal surfaces, and electronic components from grease, resin, and other contaminants.
Paint and Varnish Industry
Used as a paint thinner, varnish remover, and for surface preparation.
Cosmetic Products
Main component in nail polish removers.
Chemical Synthesis
Intermediate in the production of methyl methacrylate (MMA), bisphenol A (BPA), and other chemicals.
Laboratories
Used for cleaning glassware and as a solvent in chemical reactions.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Used as a solvent in drug manufacturing and tablet coatings.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value | Unit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₃H₆O | - | - |
| CAS Number | 67-64-1 | - | - |
| EC Number | 200-662-2 | - | - |
| Molecular Weight | 58.08 | g/mol | - |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid | - | Visual |
| Odor | Sharp, characteristic | - | Olfactometry |
| Density (20°C) | 0.790-0.793 | g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Boiling Point | 56.05 | °C | ASTM D1078 |
| Melting Point | -94.7 | °C | ASTM D1015 |
| Flash Point | -20 | °C | ASTM D93 |
| Autoignition Temperature | 465 | °C | ASTM E659 |
| Vapor Pressure (20°C) | 24.7 | kPa | ASTM D2879 |
| Viscosity (20°C) | 0.32 | cP | ASTM D445 |
| pH Value | 7 | - | ASTM E70 |
| Purity (GC) | ≥99.5 | % | ASTM D3546 |
| Water Content | ≤0.5 | % | ASTM E203 |
Safety Information
Hazard Symbols and Statements
Flammable Eye and skin irritation May affect the central nervous system
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Chemically resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Protective goggles or face shield
- Adequate ventilation or respiratory protection (in high vapor concentrations)
- Chemically resistant apron or work clothing
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, well-ventilated area
- Keep away from ignition sources and sparks
- Store in original sealed containers, protected from sunlight
- Keep separate from oxidizing agents
- Storage temperature: 15-25°C
Firefighting Measures
- Suitable extinguishers: Dry chemical, CO₂, foam, or water mist
- Do not use water jets - may spread the fire
- Trained personnel should intervene with appropriate respiratory protection
Handling and Storage
Handling
- Ensure containers are tightly sealed during transport
- Ground equipment to prevent static electricity buildup
- Provide adequate ventilation in transport vehicles
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling
Storage
- Store in stainless steel, polyethylene, or glass containers
- Use polyethylene or Teflon for plastic containers
- Display "Flammable Liquid" signs in storage areas
- Use appropriate breather valves in storage tanks
Spill Response Measures
- Remove all ignition sources
- Use appropriate respiratory protection
- Absorb spills with sand, chemical sponges, or other absorbent materials
- Dispose of absorbed materials appropriately
- Clean the spilled area with plenty of water and detergent
Regulatory Information
GHS Classification
- Flammable Liquid Category 2
- Skin Irritation Category 2
- Eye Irritation Category 2A
- Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) Category 3
Key Regulations
- REACH: Registered
- CLP: Compliant
- OSHA: Subject to hazard communication standards
- NFPA 704: Health 1, Flammability 3, Reactivity 0
International Regulations
- European Union: Subject to Directive 2008/58/EC
- USA: Listed on EPA TSCA inventory
- China: Listed on IECSC
- Japan: Listed on ISHL
Environmental Information
Environmental Impact
Acetone degrades rapidly in the environment and is biodegradable. Its impact on aquatic life is limited due to its high evaporation rate, but release into the environment should be avoided.
Biodegradation
- Air: Photochemical reactions with a 22-day half-life
- Water: Degrades via microbial activity within 1-10 days
- Soil: Rapid degradation through microbial activity
Waste Management
- Not classified as hazardous waste
- Small quantities can be evaporated in well-ventilated areas
- Large quantities should be incinerated in licensed hazardous waste facilities
- Dispose in accordance with local regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
How is acetone produced?
Acetone is primarily produced via three methods: the cumene hydroperoxide process (Hock process), dehydrogenation of isopropyl alcohol, and direct oxidation of propylene. The most common method today is the cumene hydroperoxide process, a byproduct of phenol production.
What sets acetone apart from other solvents?
Acetone is preferred for its low toxicity, high solvency power, rapid evaporation, and relatively low cost. Compared to solvents like methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) or toluene, it is considered less toxic.
Does acetone dissolve plastics?
Yes, acetone can dissolve or damage certain plastics, such as polystyrene and ABS. However, plastics like polyethylene, polypropylene, and Teflon are resistant to acetone.
What is the shelf life of acetone?
When stored properly in sealed containers, acetone has no defined shelf life. However, prolonged storage may lead to reduced purity due to water absorption.
What should I do if acetone contacts my skin?
Wash with plenty of soap and water. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. Acetone can remove natural oils from the skin, so using a moisturizer may be beneficial.