Isopropyl Alcohol (Isopropanol)
High-purity industrial solvent, disinfectant, and cleaning agent
Overview
Isopropyl Alcohol (CAS No: 67-63-0), also known as isopropanol or IPA, is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sharp odor. It is the second simplest member of the alcohol family and is widely used as a versatile solvent in industrial and medical applications.
Isopropyl alcohol is miscible with water, ethanol, and ether, making it indispensable in disinfectants, cleaning products, and the electronics industry. Its relatively low toxicity makes it a preferred choice for many applications.
Applications
Isopropyl alcohol has a wide range of industrial, medical, and consumer applications:
Disinfectants
Used as an effective disinfectant at 60-70% concentration in hospitals, laboratories, and household cleaning.
Electronics Cleaning
Removes grease and dirt from computer components, circuit boards, and sensitive electronic devices.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Used as a solvent and carrier in ointments, lotions, and other pharmaceutical products.
Paints and Coatings
Acts as a paint thinner, resin solvent, and surface preparation agent.
Laboratories
Used in DNA extraction, microscope lens cleaning, and laboratory equipment disinfection.
Automotive
Used as a brake fluid cleaner, windshield antifreeze, and fuel system cleaner.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value | Unit | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₃H₈O | - | - |
| CAS Number | 67-63-0 | - | - |
| EC Number | 200-661-7 | - | - |
| Molecular Weight | 60.10 | g/mol | - |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid | - | Visual |
| Odor | Sharp, alcoholic | - | Olfactometry |
| Density (20°C) | 0.785-0.787 | g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Boiling Point | 82.6 | °C | ASTM D1078 |
| Melting Point | -89.5 | °C | ASTM D1015 |
| Flash Point | 12 | °C | ASTM D93 |
| Autoignition Temperature | 399 | °C | ASTM E659 |
| Vapor Pressure (20°C) | 4.4 | kPa | ASTM D2879 |
| Viscosity (20°C) | 2.04 | cP | ASTM D445 |
| pH Value | 6-7 | - | ASTM E70 |
| Purity (GC) | ≥99.7 | % | ASTM D3545 |
| Water Content | ≤0.2 | % | ASTM E203 |
Safety Information
Hazard Symbols and Statements
Flammable Eye and skin irritation Narcotic effect
Personal Protective Equipment
- Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Protective goggles or face shield
- Proper ventilation or respiratory protection in high vapor concentrations
- Chemical-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 fire
- Trained personnel should intervene with proper respiratory protection
Handling and Storage
Handling
- Ensure containers are tightly sealed during transport
- Ground equipment to prevent static electricity buildup
- Provide proper 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
- Label storage areas with "Flammable Liquid" signs
- 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 properly
- Clean the spill 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: FDA-approved for food contact
- China: Listed on IECSC
- Japan: Listed on ISHL
Environmental Information
Environmental Impact
Isopropyl alcohol degrades moderately quickly in the environment and is biodegradable. It is moderately toxic to aquatic organisms if released into water sources. Its high evaporation rate minimizes persistence in aquatic environments.
Biodegradation
- Air: Photochemical reactions with a half-life of 3-10 days
- Water: Degrades via microbial activity within 1-7 days
- Soil: Rapid degradation via 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 isopropyl alcohol produced?
Isopropyl alcohol is primarily produced via two methods: direct hydration of propylene (adding water) or indirect hydration of propylene with sulfuric acid. The direct hydration method is commonly used in industrial-scale production.
What is the difference between isopropyl alcohol and ethyl alcohol?
Isopropyl alcohol (C₃H₈O) is a secondary alcohol, while ethyl alcohol (C₂H₅OH) is a primary alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is a stronger solvent but is not safe for consumption. For disinfection, 70% isopropyl alcohol is more effective than 70% ethyl alcohol.
Does isopropyl alcohol damage plastics?
Isopropyl alcohol is safe for most plastics but may cloud or dissolve certain types, such as polystyrene, polycarbonate, and acrylic. Polyethylene and polypropylene are generally resistant.
What is the shelf life of isopropyl alcohol?
When stored properly in sealed containers, isopropyl alcohol has no defined shelf life. However, in open containers, its concentration may decrease over time due to water absorption.
What should I do if isopropyl alcohol contacts my skin?
Wash with plenty of water and soap. Prolonged contact may cause skin dryness, so using a moisturizer can be helpful. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.