1. Chemical Structure and Properties

Molecular Formula: C₃H₆O

Structural Formula: (CH₃)₂CO — a simple ketone with a central carbonyl group flanked by two methyl groups

Physical Properties:
     Appearance: Colorless, volatile liquid with a sharp, sweet odor
     Boiling Point: 56°C; Density: 0.79 g/cm³
     Solubility: Miscible with water, ethanol, ether, and most organic solvents

Chemical Properties:
     - High polarity (dipole moment ~2.9 D)
     - Polar aprotic solvent suitable for nucleophilic addition and reduction reactions
     - Flammable: Flash point -20°C; Autoignition temperature 465°C

2. Industrial Applications

Solvent:
     - Universal solvent for paints, coatings, adhesives, inks, and cleaning agents
     - Widely used in pharmaceutical synthesis and purification processes

Chemical Feedstock:
     - Key precursor in production of methyl methacrylate (MMA) for acrylic plastics
     - Used in synthesis of bisphenol A (BPA) for epoxies and polycarbonates

Laboratory Use:
     - Common solvent in chromatography, organic synthesis, and extractions

Cosmetic Industry:
     - Included in skincare formulations as a degreasing and cleansing agent

3. Safety and Toxicology

Health Hazards:
     - Skin/Eye Contact: Causes irritation and defatting of skin
     - Inhalation: Vapors may cause dizziness, nausea, and CNS depression
     - Ingestion: May cause gastrointestinal discomfort, though low acute toxicity

Fire & Explosion Risk:
     - Forms explosive vapor-air mixtures; requires spark-proof equipment and adequate ventilation

Protective Measures:
     - PPE: Nitrile gloves, chemical goggles, and respiratory protection in confined spaces
     - First Aid: Flush affected area with water; seek medical attention if symptoms persist

4. Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Environmental Impact:
     - Volatile: High vapor pressure leads to atmospheric emissions
     - Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable (>90% within 28 days, OECD guidelines)
     - Aquatic Toxicity: Moderate (LC50, fish, 96h: 1,000–10,000 mg/L)

Regulatory Compliance:
     - EU: REACH-registered; classified as flammable liquid and eye irritant
     - USA: TSCA-listed; included on EPA Safer Chemical Ingredient List (SCIL)
     - Transport: UN 1090, Class 3, Packing Group II

5. Case Studies: Application Insights

Acrylic Plastic Production:
     - Lucite International utilizes acetone in MMA synthesis with 95% conversion efficiency

Pharmaceutical Purification:
     - Merck applies acetone to crystallize vitamin B₁₂, achieving >99% purity

Comparison with Alternatives:
     - Compared to cyclohexanone, acetone is less toxic and more biodegradable
     - However, it is less effective for dissolving certain polymers