Isopropyl alcohol, commonly known as IPA, is a versatile and widely-used chemical compound with the chemical formula C3H8O. It is a colourless, flammable liquid with a distinct, pungent odour. Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is a key player in various industrial, pharmaceutical, and household applications due to its remarkable properties and effectiveness. This description focuses on technical-grade isopropyl alcohol with a concentration of at least 80%, typically available in 3.9 kg containers.
Features and Benefits of Isopropyl alcohol (technical), at least 80% (3.9 kg):
- High Purity: Technical-grade isopropyl alcohol with a minimum concentration of 80% is known for its exceptional purity. This purity level ensures that it is free from contaminants, making it suitable for critical applications.
- Versatile Solvent: Isopropyl alcohol is an excellent solvent for dissolving multiple substances, including oils, resins, and greases. Its ability to dissolve various compounds makes it valuable in cleaning and degreasing processes.
- Quick Evaporation: One of the critical benefits of IPA is its rapid evaporation rate. This feature makes it ideal for applications where leaving behind minimal residue or moisture is crucial, such as in electronics and precision instrument cleaning.
- Antiseptic Properties: Isopropyl alcohol is well-known for its antiseptic properties, making it an essential component in healthcare settings for disinfecting surfaces and skin. It helps kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi on contact.
- Surface Preparation: IPA is commonly used for preparing surfaces before painting, bonding, or sealing. It ensures a clean, oil-free surface, promoting better adhesion and finish quality.
Versatile Applications of Isopropyl alcohol (technical), at least 80% (3.9 kg):
- Medical and Healthcare: Isopropyl alcohol is widely used in hospitals and clinics as an antiseptic for disinfecting skin before injections or surgeries. It is also used to clean and sterilize medical equipment.
- Electronics and Semiconductor Industry: IPA is an integral part of electronics manufacturing and repair. It is used for cleaning and degreasing electronic components, PCBs, and connectors without leaving behind any residue.
- Pharmaceutical Industry: In pharmaceutical manufacturing, IPA is employed for cleaning and sanitizing equipment and containers to maintain product quality and sterility.
- Automotive and Industrial Maintenance: IPA is used for degreasing and cleaning automotive parts, machinery, and tools in industrial and automotive maintenance.
- Cosmetics and Personal Care: Isopropyl alcohol finds its way into cosmetics and personal care products as a disinfectant, antiseptic, and ingredient in lotions, perfumes, and colognes.
- Laboratory and Scientific Research: In laboratories, IPA is essential for cleaning glassware and laboratory equipment and as a solvent for various analytical techniques.