Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), also known as 2-Propanol, Isopropanol, or Rubbing Alcohol, is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong odor. Its chemical formula is C₃H₇OH. It is one of the most commonly used alcohols in industrial, pharmaceutical, and household applications due to its solvent properties, antiseptic qualities, and disinfecting capabilities. IPA is a secondary alcohol, meaning the hydroxyl group (-OH) is attached to the second carbon in the carbon chain, as opposed to n-propanol, which is a primary alcohol.
Properties of Isopropyl Alcohol:
- Molecular Formula: C₃H₇OH or CH₃CH(OH)CH₃
- IUPAC Name: Propan-2-ol
- Boiling Point: 82.6°C (180.7°F)
- Melting Point: -89°C (-128°F)
- Density: 0.786 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Flash Point: 12°C (54°F) – highly flammable
- Solubility: Completely miscible with water, ethanol, acetone, and many other organic solvents. Slightly miscible in benzene and chloroform.
Key Uses of Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA):
Solvent:
IPA is used as a solvent in paint thinners, lacquers, cleaning agents, and adhesives. It is also used as a solvent in the pharmaceutical industry for extracting compounds and in the production of cosmetics.
Antiseptic and Disinfectant:
IPA is widely used as a disinfectant and antiseptic in wound cleaning, hand sanitizers, and medical sterilization. It is commonly used in hospitals and clinics for surface sanitizing and sterilizing medical tools.
Cleaning Agent:
IPA is extensively used in electronics (e.g., cleaning circuit boards, glass surfaces, and optical lenses) due to its ability to evaporate quickly and leave no residue. It is also used for removing grease and dirt from automotive and mechanical parts.
Fuel Additive:
Used in fuel systems to remove moisture and prevent freezing (especially in aircraft fuel systems).
Cosmetics and Personal Care:
Isopropyl alcohol is used in cosmetic products such as nail polish removers, aftershaves, and hair sprays.
Pharmaceutical:
Isopropyl alcohol is commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry for dissolving active ingredients and in topical antiseptics.