Acetone (2-Propanone; Dimethyl Ketone)

CAS No.: 67-64-1
Synonyms / IUPAC Name: 2-Propanone; Dimethyl Ketone
Molecular Formula: C₃H₆O
Molecular Weight: 58.08 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, colourless liquid
Odour: Characteristic sweet / fruity solvent-like odour

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Melting / Freezing Point: ~ −94 °C
• Boiling Point: ~ 56 °C
• Density (25 °C): ~ 0.79 g/cm³
• Refractive Index (n²⁰ᴰ): ~ 1.359
• Solubility: Miscible with water and most organic solvents
• Flash Point: ~ −18 to 0 °C (closed cup)
• Vapour Pressure (20 °C): ~184 mmHg (≈ 24.5 kPa)
• Explosive Limits (in air): ~2.6 % to ~12.8 % by volume

Purity & Quality Standards

• Purity: Often ≥ 99.5% for high-grade solvent applications
• Appearance: Clear, colourless, free from visible impurities or haze
• Analytical Methods: Gas chromatography for purity; moisture content by Karl Fischer or equivalent
• Stability: Stable under recommended storage; avoid prolonged exposure to heat and ignition sources

Applications / Uses

• Widely used as a solvent in paints, coatings, adhesives, inks, cleaning and degreasing operations
• Intermediate in manufacturing of plastics, fibres, pharmaceuticals and other organic compounds
• Laboratory solvent for extraction, sample preparation and chromatography
• Used in consumer and industrial products such as nail polish remover and cleaning solutions

Safety & Handling

• Hazards:
  • Highly flammable liquid and vapour
  • May cause eye irritation
  • Vapours may cause dizziness or drowsiness
• Health Effects:
  • Inhalation: May cause respiratory irritation and central nervous system effects (dizziness, nausea)
  • Skin Contact: May cause dryness, cracking or irritation on prolonged exposure
  • Eye Contact: Causes serious eye irritation
• Precautions:
  • Use in well-ventilated areas or under local exhaust
  • Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames and hot surfaces
  • Ground and bond containers and equipment during transfer
  • Wear protective gloves, eye/face protection and flame-resistant clothing
• Reactivity / Incompatibilities: Avoid strong oxidisers, acids/bases; vapours may travel and flash-back
• First Aid:
  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical help if symptoms persist
  • Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash thoroughly with soap and water
  • Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present; seek medical attention
  • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; get medical attention immediately

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Supplied in sealed, solvent-compatible containers suitable for flammable liquids
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool (<30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, ignition sources and incompatible materials
• Container Closure: Keep tightly closed when not in use to prevent vapour loss and contamination
• Shelf Life: Stable under recommended conditions, typically 12–24 months or longer