Product Overview
- Chemical Name: Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)
- Synonyms: 2-Propanol, Dimethylcarbinol
- Chemical Formula: C₃H₈O
- Molecular Weight: 60.095
- CAS Number: 67-63-0
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), also known as 2-propanol or dimethylcarbinol, is an organic compound that exists as a colorless, transparent liquid at room temperature. It has an odor similar to ethanol (commonly known as alcohol).
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Appearance: Colorless, transparent liquid
- Odor: Similar to ethanol
- Flash Point: 11.7°C
- Molecular Formula: C₃H₈O
- Miscibility: Miscible with ethanol, ether, chloroform, and water
- Insolubility: Insoluble in saline solutions
- Toxicity: Approximately twice that of ethanol
- Flammability: Easily flammable and forms azeotropes with water
- Explosion Risk: Its vapor can form explosive mixtures with air at room temperature
Industrial Isopropyl Alcohol
As an Organic Solvent
Isopropyl Alcohol is extensively used as a solvent in inks, coatings, and paints.
Applications in the Electronics Industry
In the electronics industry, IPA is primarily used for cleaning oils, greases, and residues from precision components and circuit boards.
As a Chemical Intermediate
Isopropyl Alcohol serves as a key raw material for producing various important industrial chemicals, including:
- Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK)
- Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂)
- Acetone
- Isopropylamine
- Diisobutyl Ketone
- Isopropyl Chloride
- Isopropyl Ether
- Fatty Acid Isopropyl Esters and Chlorinated Isopropyl Esters
These derivatives are widely used in coatings, pharmaceuticals, and fine chemical synthesis.
Applications in Fine Chemical Industry
In the fine chemical sector, IPA is used for manufacturing:
- Triisopropyl Phosphite
- Aluminum Isopropoxide
- Isopropyl Xanthate
- Isopropyl Nitrate
It also serves as a precursor for pharmaceuticals and pesticide intermediates, as well as the production of Diisopropyl Acetone, Isopropyl Acetate, and Thymol.
Other Industrial Applications
Isopropyl Alcohol is a multi-functional chemical with applications across different sectors:
- Gasoline Additive: Used to improve combustion efficiency and prevent engine icing
- Cleaning Agent: Ideal for industrial surface cleaning and degreasing
- Antifreeze: Prevents freezing in coolant and cleaning systems
- Textile Industry: Acts as a fixing agent in printing and dyeing processes
- Pigment Industry: Used as a dispersant during pigment production
- Glass and Plastics Industry: Serves as an anti-fogging agent for transparent surfaces
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