Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) – 1 Liter Bottle
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), also known as isopropanol or propan-2-ol, is a colorless liquid with a strong, characteristic odor. Its chemical formula is CH₃CH(OH)CH₃. This high-purity, anhydrous IPA is a powerful solvent with diverse applications across various industries.
Properties of Isopropyl Alcohol:
IPA is a secondary alcohol belonging to the aliphatic series. It readily forms esters and reacts with active metals. Condensation with aromatic compounds yields derivatives like isopropylbenzene. It excels as a solvent, readily dissolving in benzene and acetone, and miscible with water and other organic solvents in any proportion. It effectively dissolves natural and some synthetic resins, ethylcellulose, polyvinyl butyral, and most oils. However, it’s not suitable for use with all rubbers and plastics. IPA forms an azeotropic mixture with water (87.9% propan-2-ol). Its inertness towards salt solutions facilitates its separation from aqueous solutions. IPA’s freezing point is -89.5°C. Its vapors have narcotic effects; while more toxic than ethanol, its rapid intoxicating effect prevents lethal dose ingestion.
Applications of Isopropyl Alcohol:
- Medical and Pharmaceutical: A potent antiseptic, increasingly replacing ethanol due to comparable antimicrobial activity.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care: Used as a solvent and ingredient in various cosmetic and personal care products.
- Automotive: A primary component in windshield washer fluids and antifreeze solutions.
- Industrial Cleaning: Effective for cleaning optical equipment (lenses, glasses, objectives), electronic components (printed circuit boards, contacts, relays), and fiber optic cables.
- Household Cleaning: Diluted solutions (e.g., 1:5 with water) are suitable for cleaning windows, glass, and mirrors.
- Fuel: Used as a fuel source in spirit lamps and lighters.
- Disinfectants and Sanitizers: A key ingredient in numerous disinfectants and hand sanitizers.
Safety Precautions:
IPA is flammable and should be handled with care. Avoid inhalation of vapors and prolonged skin contact. Ensure adequate ventilation when using. Keep out of reach of children. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed safety information.