Isopropyl alcohol

Functions
Solvent
Preservative booster
Pigment wetting agent
Antifoaming
Perfuming
Viscosity controlling agent
CAS Number(s)
67-63-0
EINECS number(s)
200-661-7
FDA UNII
ND2M416302

Known variously as 2-propanol, propanol 2 is most commonly known as "isopropyl alcohol." It is a secondary aliphatic alcohol with molecular formula may be C3H7OH or C3H8O, and it is a highly flammable chemical compound. Propanol-2 is a clear, colorless liquid that has a strong characteristic odor. It is miscible with water, acetone, alcohol, etc.

Typical industrial uses of propanol 2 include:

  • Coatings solvent
  • Chemical intermediate
  • Gasoline additive
  • Acetone derivative

Isopropyl alcohol is a primary component of "gas dryer" fuel additives, windshield deicers, and brake fluid. In medicine, Isopropyl alcohol is commonly used as an antimicrobial agent in sanitizing applications. A typical disinfecting pad contains a solution of 60% to 70% 2-propanol in water. At a concentration of 75% in water, it is an effective hand sanitizer.

In the laboratory, Isopropyl alcohol is used for DNA extraction. It is also a common biological specimen preservative because it is nontoxic compared to formaldehyde and other synthesized preservatives.

In personal care applications it is used as a solvent, preservative booster, antimicrobial, and viscosity-controlling agent. It has disinfecting properties, used especially in hair care products and deodorant sprays as a solvent for the active ingredients and constituents. Isopropyl alcohol is a common ingredient in decorative cosmetics, thanks to its pigment-wetting property.

Synonyms
Propan-2-ol
Isopropanol
2-propanol
Propanol 2
Isopropyl Alcohol

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