Isopropyl Alcohol (Isopropanol)

CAS No.: 67-63-0
Synonyms / IUPAC Name: 2-Propanol; Isopropanol
Molecular Formula: C₃H₈O
Molecular Weight: ~60.10 g/mol
Appearance: Colorless, volatile liquid with a pungent alcoholic odor.

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Melting Point: ~ −89.5 °C
• Boiling Point: ~ 82.6 °C (at 1 atm)
• Density / Specific Gravity: ~ 0.785 g/cm³ at 20 °C
• Solubility in Water: Miscible in all proportions
• Flash Point (Closed Cup): ~ 15–20 °C
• Vapour Behaviour: Vapours heavier than air; forms explosive mixtures in air (approx. 2–12% by volume)

Purity & Quality Standards

• Typical Purity: ≥ 99.5% (GC) for solvent-grade
• Appearance: Clear liquid, free of visible particulates or haze
• Key Specifications: Assay (isopropanol content), water/moisture content, color and clarity, absence of significant impurities
• Storage Recommendation: Store in sealed containers in a cool (< 30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources and strong oxidisers

Applications / Uses

• Common solvent for coatings, inks, cleaning fluids, degreasing and pharmaceutical formulations
• Used as a disinfectant or antiseptic in formulations and hand sanitizers (formulation dependent)
• Intermediate or carrier solvent in laboratory and industrial processes
• Useful for product drying operations where rapid evaporation is required

Safety & Handling

• Flammability: Highly flammable liquid and vapour; vapours may travel and flash back
• Health Hazards:
• Inhalation: Vapours may cause dizziness, headache or CNS effects at high concentrations
• Skin Contact: Repeated or prolonged exposure may cause dryness or irritation
• Eye Contact: May cause serious eye irritation
• Precautions:
• Use only in well-ventilated areas or with local exhaust ventilation
• Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames and hot surfaces; ground and bond containers during transfer
• Wear protective gloves, eye/face protection and appropriate protective clothing
• Avoid inhalation of vapours and prolonged skin contact
• Reactivity / Incompatibilities: Avoid strong oxidising agents, concentrated acids/bases and reactive metals; decomposition may release hazardous vapours
• First Aid (general):
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air; keep comfortable for breathing; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
• Skin: Remove contaminated clothing; wash with soap and water
• Eyes: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues
• Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do NOT induce vomiting; seek medical attention immediately

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Supplied in sealed, solvent-compatible containers (e.g., steel drums, HDPE drums, or ISO tanks) suitable for flammable liquids
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool (< 30 °C), dry, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources, direct sunlight and incompatible materials; keep containers tightly closed
• Shelf Life: Stable when stored under recommended conditions; inspect container and product appearance before use if stored for extended periods