Acetone is a colorless, volatile, and flammable organic solvent with a slightly sweet odor. It is the simplest ketone, with the chemical formula C₃H₆O. Acetone is a polar solvent that is miscible with water, alcohol, and most organic solvents. Due to its high solvency power, rapid evaporation rate, and low toxicity, acetone is one of the most widely used solvents in both industrial and household applications.
Properties:
- Molecular Formula: C₃H₆O
- IUPAC Name: Propan-2-one
- Boiling Point: 56.05°C (132.9°F)
- Melting Point: -94.7°C (-138.5°F)
- Density: 0.7845 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Flash Point: -20°C (-4°F) – highly flammable
- Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohol, acetone, ether, chloroform, and many other organic solvents.
Key Uses of Acetone:
Solvent in Paints and Coatings:
Acetone is a key ingredient in paint thinners, lacquers, and varnishes due to its fast evaporation rate and strong solvent properties.
Nail Polish Removers:
Acetone is the primary solvent in nail polish removers, as it quickly dissolves nail polish and gels.
Cleaning and Degreasing:
Used in industrial cleaning agents to remove grease, oil, adhesives, and other contaminants from surfaces and machinery.
Chemical Synthesis:
Acetone is an important intermediate in the production of chemicals such as bisphenol-A (used in polycarbonate plastics) and methyl methacrylate (used in acrylic plastics).
Pharmaceuticals:
Used as a solvent for drugs in liquid formulations, pharmaceutical extractions, and in the preparation of topical ointments and creams.
Plastics and Polymers:
Acetone is used in the production of plastics and synthetics, such as polycarbonates, acrylics, and epoxies.
Personal Care and Cosmetics:
Used in cosmetic formulations like hair removers, skin care products, and as a solvent for other ingredients.
Fragrance and Flavoring:
Acetone is used in perfume and fragrance production due to its ability to dissolve essential oils.
Laboratory Use:
In labs, acetone is used as a solvent in chemical reactions, extraction, and chromatography.