1. Chemical Structure and Properties

Molecular Formula: C₃H₈O

Structural Formula: CH₃–CHOH–CH₃ — A secondary alcohol with a hydroxyl (-OH) group attached to the middle carbon atom.

Physical Properties:

• Appearance: Colorless, volatile liquid

• Boiling Point: 82.6°C

• Density: 0.786 g/cm³ at 20°C

• Solubility: Miscible with water, ethanol, ether, and most organic solvents

Chemical Properties:

• Weakly polar secondary alcohol

• Flammable; forms peroxides upon prolonged exposure to air

• Can participate in oxidation, esterification, and dehydration reactions

• Acts as a mild reducing agent in organic synthesis

  
  

2. Industrial Applications

Solvent:

• Widely used as a solvent for paints, coatings, adhesives, and inks due to good miscibility with water and organic solvents.

Disinfectant and Cleaning Agent:

• Commonly found in hand sanitizers, rubbing alcohol, and surface disinfectants.

Chemical Intermediate:

• Used in the synthesis of acetone, glycerol derivatives, and other chemicals.

Personal Care Products:

• Employed in cosmetics, hair care, and skin care formulations as a solvent or humectant.

Pharmaceutical Industry:

• Serves as a solvent for drug formulations and intermediate for chemical reactions.

  
  

3. Safety and Toxicology

Health Hazards:

• Inhalation may cause dizziness, headache, or respiratory irritation

• Contact with eyes can cause severe irritation

• Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or poisoning

Flammability:

• Highly flammable liquid; flash point 11.7°C

• Avoid open flames, sparks, and ignition sources

Protective Measures:

• Use gloves, goggles, and ensure proper ventilation

• In case of contact, rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if necessary

  
  

4. Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Environmental Impact:

• Biodegradable under aerobic conditions

• Low bioaccumulation potential

• Avoid large releases into waterways

Regulatory Compliance:

• Listed on EU REACH and US TSCA inventories

• Transport: UN 1219, Class 3 (flammable liquids), Packing Group II

  
  

5. Case Studies and Application Insights

Solvent in Coatings:

• Used in industrial coatings for automotive and furniture applications; enhances drying speed and surface finish.

Hand Sanitizer Production:

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, isopropanol became a primary ingredient in alcohol-based hand sanitizers due to its disinfectant properties.

Pharmaceutical Formulations:

• Acts as a carrier solvent for active pharmaceutical ingredients, improving solubility and stability.