Acetone
[CAS# 67-64-1]

Identification

• Classification: Pharmaceutical intermediate >> Heterocyclic compound intermediate >> Piperazine
• Name: Acetone
• Synonyms: 2-Propanone
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₆O
• Molecular Weight: 58.08
• CAS Registry Number: 67-64-1
• EC Number: 200-662-2
• FEMA: 3326
• SMILES: CC(=O)C

Properties

• Density: 0.8±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*, 0.791 g/mL (Expl.)
• Melting point: -94 ºC (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.345, Calc.^*, 1.3585 (Expl.)
• Boiling Point: 46.5±3.0 ºC (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 56 ºC (Expl.)
• Flash Point: -17.2±0.0 ºC, Calc.^*, -17 ºC (Expl.)
• Water solubility: soluble (Expl.)

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02;GHS07 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H225-H336-H319
• Precautionary 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
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	2	H225
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H336
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H371
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	3	H226
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2A	H319

• Transport Information: UN 1090

Discovory and Applicatios

Acetone, also known as propanone, is a versatile organic solvent and one of the simplest ketones. First isolated by Andreas Libavius in 1606, acetone has a long history of use in various applications, including as a solvent, industrial chemical, and laboratory reagent. Its molecular formula is C₃H₆O, and it is characterized by its high volatility, low boiling point, and distinctive sharp odor. Acetone is naturally produced in small amounts in the human body as part of metabolic processes, especially during states like fasting and ketosis.

Acetone’s primary use is as a solvent, where its properties make it highly effective in dissolving both organic and synthetic compounds. It is widely used in the production of plastics, fibers, and other industrial materials. In the plastics industry, acetone serves as a critical component in the manufacturing of polycarbonates and epoxy resins. It is particularly valued for its ability to dissolve resins, allowing for the production of strong and durable materials. Additionally, in the production of pharmaceuticals, acetone is used to extract active ingredients from plants and other raw materials, and it plays a role in the synthesis of various drugs. This widespread use underscores its importance in industrial manufacturing.

In laboratory settings, acetone is commonly used for cleaning and degreasing laboratory glassware and equipment. Due to its fast evaporation rate and high efficacy in dissolving grease and organic residues, acetone is ideal for ensuring that lab equipment is thoroughly cleaned without leaving behind residues that might interfere with future experiments. Acetone is also utilized as a drying agent in certain analytical procedures, especially in the preparation of samples for analysis by techniques such as chromatography. Its purity and effectiveness as a solvent make it indispensable in both educational and research laboratories.

Beyond industrial and laboratory applications, acetone is found in numerous consumer products. It is a key ingredient in many nail polish removers due to its ability to dissolve the resins and colorants used in nail polish. Similarly, acetone is a common component in paint thinners and adhesives, where its solvent properties allow it to break down compounds, facilitating easier application and cleanup. In household cleaning products, acetone is used to remove tough stains, adhesives, and residues, especially from glass and metal surfaces. These consumer applications highlight acetone’s versatility and accessibility for everyday use.

Acetone’s importance extends into the field of chemical synthesis. As a reagent, acetone is involved in various organic reactions, including aldol condensations, where it acts as both a reactant and a solvent. This versatility allows acetone to serve as a building block in the synthesis of other organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals, plastics, and agrochemicals. Its reactivity makes it valuable for synthesizing a range of derivatives, further demonstrating its importance in organic chemistry and synthetic applications.

Despite its widespread use, acetone must be handled with care due to its high flammability and potential health hazards if inhaled in large quantities. While it is generally recognized as safe in low concentrations and is non-toxic in the amounts used in consumer products, industrial exposure to high levels of acetone can lead to symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and irritation of the respiratory tract. Consequently, safety protocols are essential when using acetone in industrial and laboratory environments.

In summary, acetone’s remarkable solvency, reactivity, and utility across industrial, laboratory, and consumer settings make it one of the most important chemicals in modern society. Its diverse applications, from manufacturing and research to household products, underscore its enduring value.

References

1979. Perinatal development of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme a reductase activity in rat lung, liver and brain. Lipids, 14(5).
DOI: 10.1007/bf02533460

1979. A simplified procedure for the quantitative extraction of lipids from brain tissue. Lipids, 14(6).
DOI: 10.1007/bf02533538

1979. The synthesis and turnover of spermidine and spermine in mouse brain. Neurochemical Research, 4(2).
DOI: 10.1007/bf00964150