Isopropanol
[CAS# 67-63-0]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Alcohols, phenols, phenolic compounds and derivatives >> Acyclic alcohol
• Name: Isopropanol
• Synonyms: 2-Propanol; Isopropyl alcohol; IPA
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₈O
• Molecular Weight: 60.09
• CAS Registry Number: 67-63-0
• EC Number: 200-661-7
• FEMA: 2929
• SMILES: CC(C)O

Properties

• Density: 0.785
• Melting point: -89.5 °C
• Boiling point: 81-83 °C
• Refractive index: 1.376-1.378
• Flash point: 12 °C
• Water solubility: miscible

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H225-H319-H336
• Safety Statements: P210-P233-P240-P241-P242-P243-P261-P264+P265-P271-P280-P303+P361+P353-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P337+P317-P370+P378-P403+P233-P403+P235-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	2	H225
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H336
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H371
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	1	H370
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	3	H226
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H312
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H331
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	1	H336
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1C	H314

• Transport Information: UN 1219

Discovery and Applications

Isopropyl alcohol, also known as isopropanol or 2-propanol, is a simple alcohol with the molecular formula C3H8O. It was first synthesized in 1920 by Standard Oil Chemical Company of New Jersey. The compound was discovered during extensive research into alcohols and their properties. The development of isopropyl alcohol was a major advancement for the chemical industry, providing a versatile alcohol for a range of applications.

Isopropyl alcohol is a colorless, flammable liquid with a distinctive odor. Key properties include a boiling point of 82.6°C (180.7°F), a melting point of 89.5°C (-129.1°F), complete miscibility with water and many organic solvents, and a density of 0.786 g/cm³. These properties make isopropyl alcohol an ideal solvent and disinfectant.

Isopropyl alcohol is widely used as a solvent in a variety of industrial processes and is effective for cleaning and degreasing metals, electronics, and machinery. Its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, including oils and resins, makes it very useful in manufacturing and maintenance.

In healthcare and personal care, it is a common ingredient in hand sanitizers due to its effectiveness in killing bacteria and viruses. Isopropyl alcohol-based disinfectants are widely used in healthcare settings and for personal hygiene. It is used to disinfect surfaces, medical devices, and preparation areas, helping to prevent the spread of infection.

Isopropyl alcohol is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent for extracting active ingredients and formulating various medications. Its solubility and compatibility with other substances make it useful in drug manufacturing.

In consumer products, isopropyl alcohol is used in products such as perfumes, aftershaves, and lotions for its solvent properties and as a carrier for other ingredients. Isopropyl alcohol is used in many household cleaners and disinfectants to help effectively remove stains and disinfect.

In laboratories, isopropyl alcohol is used in various chemical analyses and reactions, and as a solvent to aid in the preparation and handling of chemical samples.

Handling isopropyl alcohol requires the use of gloves and goggles to avoid direct contact with skin and eyes. Ensure good ventilation to prevent inhalation of fumes. Store isopropyl alcohol in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition. Proper storage prevents accidents and maintains product quality.

Isopropyl alcohol is relatively safe when used properly, is biodegradable, and breaks down relatively quickly in the environment. However, spills should be controlled to minimize environmental impact. Short-term exposure to isopropyl alcohol can cause irritation or dizziness. Long-term or high-level exposure should be avoided, and safety guidelines should be followed.

References

1987. Large scale preparation and characterization of mucopolysaccharase contamination free heparinase. Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 15(2).
DOI: 10.1007/bf02798354

1979. Chloroperoxidase-catalyzed oxidation of N-methyl-4-chloroaniline. Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences, 35(9).
DOI: 10.1007/bf01963254

1979. Uptake, tissue distribution, metabolism and elimination n-octano-1-14C-hydroxamic acid by brook trout. Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, 22(6).
DOI: 10.1007/bf02026940