What Is the CAS Number for Isopropyl Alcohol?
The CAS number for isopropyl alcohol, also known as isopropanol, propan-2-ol, or rubbing alcohol, is 67-63-0. The systematic IUPAC name is propan-2-ol, and the common synonyms are 2-propanol and isopropanol. Isopropyl alcohol is a colorless, flammable organic compound with a pungent odor, and it is one of the most widely used solvents in industry and consumer products.
Solubility and Solvency Power
Isopropyl alcohol is a polar organic molecule that is miscible with water, ethanol, and chloroform. This wide compatibility allows it to dissolve a broad range of substances, including ethyl cellulose, polyvinyl butyral, many oils, alkaloids, and natural resins. The combination of water miscibility and good solvency makes IPA a practical choice for cleaning formulas, coatings, and extraction processes where residue-free drying behavior is required.
Cleaning Applications
As a general cleaner, isopropyl alcohol is excellent for glass and lenses and can be used on virtually any surface. It removes light grease, oils, dirt, and food stains, evaporates quickly, and leaves surfaces clean. It is a specialist cleaner for computer equipment, electronic devices, contact pins, optical heads, and printer components, and it is commonly used to remove thermal paste from CPUs and other heat sinks.
Other Everyday and Industrial Uses
Beyond cleaning, IPA serves many roles. It acts as an anti-foamer and foam inhibitor in processing, as a deodorizer for shoes, and as an ingredient in dishwasher rinse agents. It is a solvent for diluting lacquers, PVC adhesives, dyes, and printing inks, and it can remove graffiti from inks and markers. In cold climates, it is used as a deicer for locks and windscreens, as an additive to windscreen washer fluid, and as an antifreeze that dissolves water or ice in fuel lines.
Safety Considerations
Isopropyl alcohol is flammable, and its vapors can form explosive mixtures with air. Keep it away from open flames and sparks, and use it in well-ventilated areas. It is an eye and skin irritant at high concentrations, and ingestion is dangerous. Store the product in tightly closed, grounded containers, and consult the safety data sheet before handling large quantities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CAS number of isopropyl alcohol? The CAS number of isopropyl alcohol is 67-63-0.
What are other names for isopropyl alcohol? Other names include isopropanol, 2-propanol, propan-2-ol, and rubbing alcohol.
Is isopropyl alcohol miscible with water? Yes, isopropyl alcohol is miscible with water, ethanol, and chloroform.
What is isopropyl alcohol used for? It is used for cleaning glass, lenses, and electronics, as a solvent for inks and adhesives, as a deicer, and as an antifreeze additive.
Is isopropyl alcohol flammable? Yes, isopropyl alcohol is a flammable liquid, so it must be kept away from ignition sources.
What does isopropyl alcohol dissolve? It dissolves ethyl cellulose, polyvinyl butyral, oils, alkaloids, and natural resins.