What is isopropyl alcohol used for? Isopropyl alcohol use and precautions

What is isopropyl alcohol used for? Isopropyl alcohol use and precautions

Isopropyl alcohol(isopropanol) is organic compound belonging to the class of alcohols. In accordance with the characteristics of the application, it is. Isopropyl alcohol has the formula CH3CH(OH)CH3. It is also called medical alcohol.

Isopropyl alcohol is a clear liquid with a bitter taste and a strong alcohol odor. Flammable. Has a low density. It has characteristic physical and chemical properties.

Physical properties of isopropanol

Substance in liquid state has a density of 0.79 g/cm3. This density is lower than that of water, so isopropanol is more volatile than water. It starts to boil at 83 degrees Celsius. At a concentration of more than 2.5%, under certain conditions, it can explode. Spontaneous ignition occurs when heated to temperatures above 450 degrees Celsius. The combination of isopropyl alcohol vapors with air can form an explosive suspension.

Alcohol dissolves well in acetone, benzene. When added to a mixture of water and isopropanol table salt it stands out in a separate faction.

Another property of isopropanol is the gradual increase in viscosity upon cooling. At values ​​below -70 °C, it has a syrupy consistency.

The strongest absorption line of isopropanol molecules is in the ultraviolet part of the spectrum (204 nm).

Chemical properties of isopropanol

Isopropyl alcohol easily converts to acetone. This happens when it reacts with oxidizing agents such as chromic acid or using heated copper. During this reaction, a hydrogen molecule is split off from the alcohol.

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Isopropanol is a solvent and can damage plastic and rubber products. When heated with sulfuric acid, propylene can be formed from it.

Like many other alcohols, isopropyl alcohol reacts with certain metals, such as potassium.

Getting isopropyl alcohol

The scale of production of isopropanol is millions of tons per year. For the industrial production of isopropyl alcohol, water and propylene are used (hydration reaction). Distinguish between direct and indirect hydration. Indirect hydration is actively used in the USA. It uses raw materials of poor quality.

Direct hydration, for which highly purified propylene is used, is used in Europe.

Indirect hydration is understood as the interaction of sulfuric acid and propylene, in which a mixture of esters is formed. Hydrolysis of these compounds using steam leads to the release of isopropyl alcohol. This also releases diisopropyl ether. It is a by-product and then also used to produce isopropyl alcohol.

With direct hydration, the reaction of water and propylene occurs with the participation of catalysts. It runs under high pressure. This reaction gives a higher quality alcohol with a purity of more than 90 percent. The result is isopropyl alcohol absolute.

Distillation is used to separate alcohol from water and other reaction products. Initially, a mixture is formed, consisting of 88 percent alcohol and 12 percent water. Such alcohol is called wet. To obtain a pure product, the azeotropic distillation method is used, for which cyclohexane and other compounds are used.

In the production of isopropyl alcohol, it is necessary to comply with the standards regulated in accordance with GOST 9805 84: isopropyl alcohol, specifications.

Use of isopropanol

Isopropyl alcohol is used in various fields human activity. Among them are such as the paint and varnish industry, oil refining, wood processing, chemical, perfumery and furniture industries, auto chemical goods.

In the production of varnishes and paints, it is used as a solvent. In the field of oil refining, isopropyl alcohol has found use as an additive to oils and as a solvent.

In woodworking, it is used to extract wood resin.

In chemical and perfume industry this substance is used as a solvent for ethers and other substances.

In the field of autochemistry, this alcohol has found application in the production of antifreezes and other liquids required for the operation of automobiles.

Isopropyl alcohol can be found in perfumes, cosmetics, household chemicals, and disinfectants. It is also used in plumbing.

Most of the isopropyl alcohol is sold during the manufacturing process various kinds products. It is often used in the pharmaceutical business, due to the low toxicity of impurities. Some of the isopropyl alcohol is used in chemistry to produce acetone. However, more often it is used to obtain isopropylbenzene. About 5 tons per year is used for household purposes and in cosmetics.

Another area of ​​use of isopropanol is its inclusion in the composition of gasoline as an additive.

The use of isopropanol as a solvent

Isopropyl alcohol evaporates easily and has a lower (in comparison with other solvents) toxicity. As a solvent, it is suitable for many formulations. All this led to the active use of this alcohol as a solvent and cleaning agent, especially when cleaning products from oil contamination. Isopropyl alcohol can be used to clean parts in electronic engineering, keyboards, LCD monitors. Might be a good option as a cleaning agent in household. It is suitable for materials such as fabric and wood. At the same time, it cannot be used to clean vinyl.

Application in the chemical industry and medicine

Isopropyl alcohol is the raw material for the production of isopropyl acetate, which is also a solvent. The reaction of isopropanol with aluminum and titanium tetrachloride leads to the release of titanium.

Isopropanol is used in medicine in the composition of swabs for disinfection, which contain an aqueous solution this connection. It is also used as a drying agent to prevent otitis externa (one of the diseases of the ears).

The use of isopropanol in the automotive industry

Isopropanol is used as the main ingredient in the fuel composition in order to dissolve the water fraction in the gasoline composition. This eliminates the risk of freezing water. On sale you can find aerosol cans, the main purpose of which is the fight against icing of the windshield. It is also used to clean brake systems from brake fluid residues.

Application in biology

Isopropyl alcohol is used as a preservative for organics and for storage of analyzes. Formaldehyde can also be used for preservation, but it is more toxic.

Isopropanol is often used in DNA research. The fact is that the DNA molecule does not dissolve in this alcohol. During research, isopropyl alcohol is added to prepared DNA for the purpose of precipitation.

Toxicology

Isopropanol negatively affects the human body. If it comes into contact with the skin, it causes irritation. When ingested, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, depression and even coma can occur.

The following adverse events may also occur:

Gastrointestinal Disorders

  • Gastrointestinal disorders.
  • An increase in blood pressure.
  • Gastritis.
  • Decreased heart rate.

This substance has the greatest effect on the nervous system. Cases of such serious consequences of poisoning as necrosis of skeletal muscles are also known.

The penetration of alcohol into the body can occur due to inhalation, absorption into the skin, ingestion. A dose of 15 grams of this alcohol for an adult is considered dangerous.

Poisoning by ingestion sometimes occurs in children. In this case, the case, as a rule, does not reach a lethal outcome. When taking small amounts of this alcohol, diarrhea is mainly observed.

Inhalation poisoning is unlikely as this substance is not very volatile. Therefore, for the accumulation of molecules in indoor air, it is required big square spill and specific time. During combustion, isopropanol breaks down into carbon dioxide molecules and water molecules. At the same time, undesirable substances are not emitted, there is no smoke and soot.

The main negative effect of isopropanol is due to the fact that in the human body it is converted to acetone. The elimination time of isopropyl alcohol is 3 to 8 hours.

However, it is less toxic than methyl alcohol. Compared to ethanol, it has a more pronounced narcotic effect. For a certain time there is intoxication. At high concentrations of isopropyl alcohol vapors, loss of consciousness may occur.

Isopropyl alcohol does not accumulate in the human body, so chronic poisoning is unlikely.

  • well ventilate the premises;
  • keep this substance out of the reach of children;
  • do not misuse.

You can buy isopropyl alcohol at major cities, including in Moscow low cost. At the same time, the sale is carried out in a small amount. A large volume of this alcohol can be purchased by order in online stores.

Isopropanol is a moderately hazardous substance used in manufacturing and medicine. You can get poisoned with isopropyl alcohol by inhaling its vapors, as well as by ingestion. Why is the compound dangerous for human life?

What is isopropanol

Isopropyl is a colorless alcoholic solution with a sharp bad smell. Isopropanol belongs to the third hazard class, it is often used in the production of acetone and hydrogen peroxide.

This alcohol is able to replace ethanol and is found in some cosmetics, perfumes, detergents and disinfectants. It is also used in medicine.

Most often, the product can be found in a solution for washing car windows. Isopropyl alcohol (Isopropyl) is highly soluble in water, is capable of volatilizing indoors, and can accumulate if leaked. When exceeding allowable norms- up to 10 mg per 1 m³ can become extremely dangerous.

Isopropyl is a flammable product and must be handled with care. It can irritate the skin, affect the respiratory system, and also provoke poisoning.

Properties

Isopropyl, like other types of alcohol, has the following properties:

  • The chemical formula of alcohol is c3h8o. The compound can form esters and esters. When hydrogen is added, it can turn into acetone, which has a pungent odor. It interacts with powerful oxidizing agents, actively in relation to rubber and plastic.
  • A colorless liquid capable of self-ignition when the temperature reaches more than 450°C. Vapors of isopropanol can mix with oxygen and form an explosive mixture. Isopropyl is susceptible to dissolution in acetone and benzene, can be mixed with other solvents. Freezing together with water.

Areas of use

The substance has relatively low cost, and is actively used in the following industries:

  • Paint production. It is used in the form of solvents and varnishes based on cellulose nitrates, used in the painting business.
  • Oil refineries. It is used as a solvent, an additive to oils, as well as an extractant for monobasic carboxylic acids.
  • Wood processing enterprises use this alcohol to extract wood resin.
  • Chemical plants, furniture factories, perfume factories. It is used as a solvent for esters, wax and other components.
  • For the production of auto chemical products: antifreeze, windshield washers and other liquids used for car care.

In addition, isopropyl (more precisely, absolute isopropyl alcohol) is used in other areas: acetone, hydrogen peroxide, and isopropylamine are obtained from it. Very often, the element serves as a substitute for ethyl alcohol, ethanol and is part of:

  • perfumery products;
  • detergents and cleaners;
  • disinfectant solutions;
  • repellents;
  • defrosters for windows and car locks.

Isopropyl found its use in plumbing. In combination with oil, it is able to significantly increase production. In addition, medical wipes are often impregnated with this alcohol.

How does it affect the body

Isopropanol can affect a person in different ways. Isopropanol poisoning often leads to unpleasant consequences:

  • When inhaled into the body, the eyes and respiratory organs are most susceptible to irritant action. This often provokes headache and depression of the brain.
  • When ingested, the compound is rarely fatal. When used in small doses, the drug causes diarrhea. The negative impact of isopropyl is observed when using more than 50 ml. When it enters the stomach, it dissolves easily and quickly, after which it is converted in the liver into 80% acetone and 10% morphine. The other 10% comes from water and carbon dioxide. Remains of metabolism are removed with urine and exhalation of vapours.
  • The narcotic and intoxicating effect of the compound exceeds the effect of ethanol twice. A certain concentration provokes intoxication after a few hours. With prolonged exposure, irritation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory organs, as well as loss of consciousness, may occur.

It is worth noting that isopropyl intoxication is very rare, but nevertheless, isopropyl alcohol is harmful to humans. The substance has broad scope use both in the economy and in cosmetology. However, if it leaks, the presence of a person in a locked room threatens health and life.

Isopropanol vapor poisoning can lead to the following disorders:

  • disruption of the digestive system;
  • gastritis;
  • hypertension;
  • arrhythmias;
  • diarrhea
  • destruction of red blood cells, hemolysis of blood;
  • kidney failure.

The compound is harmful and dangerous in the amount of 50 ml. A glass of isopropanol is usually fatal. Due to the powerful intoxicating effect, the patient can enter an alcoholic trance before he has time to take the entire dangerous dose of poison.

How can you get poisoned

You can accidentally get poisoned with isopropyl. Most often, people drink explosive liquid, confusing it with vodka.

At risk for poisoning are people from disadvantaged categories of the population: alcoholics, people with mental disorders, homeless people who use the solution as part of windshield washers for cars.

Rare cases of intentional use of the substance have been recorded. Occasionally, children who drink the solution without knowing the danger are poisoned by the liquid.

The lethal dose of isopropanol is 250 mg. The toxin dissolves in the stomach after 30-60 minutes, after which its negative effects begin to occur.

How poisoning occurs:

  • Initially, the compound is absorbed from the mucous surfaces of the stomach.
  • Then it enters the circulatory system.
  • Approximately 80% of the substance is processed in the liver.
  • A small amount of isopropanol is excreted through Airways and kidneys.
  • 10% alcohol in pure form remains in the circulatory system and is converted to acetone.
  • Acetonemia develops, which adversely affects the liver, kidney system and brain.

On average, the connection is displayed in 7 hours.

Symptoms

Signs of poisoning that occur when a toxin is ingested may indicate damage to a specific organ. The digestive system, brain, heart and blood vessels most often suffer. In addition, the destruction of muscle fibers is possible.

Initial symptoms of poisoning appear within 30 minutes and include the following:

  • the smell of acetone from the oral cavity;
  • vomiting containing blood impurities;
  • painful syndromes in the abdomen;
  • increased motor activity;
  • pain symptoms in the head;
  • dizziness.

With severe intoxication, other manifestations are possible:

  • speech disorder;
  • temperature drop;
  • increase in blood pressure;
  • fainting state;
  • coma.

If these signs are present, the victim must be urgently hospitalized.

First aid

In case of poisoning with a dangerous compound, an ambulance is immediately called to the victim. Prior to the arrival of doctors, the following activities are carried out:

  • Gastric lavage by artificial induction of vomiting. To do this, press on the root of the tongue.
  • When the patient is unconscious, he is placed on his side to avoid getting vomit into the respiratory system.
  • The antidote for isopropyl alcohol is vodka or diluted alcohol. One glass is enough to neutralize the poison.

If a person has lost consciousness, you should not do a gastric lavage or force him to drink anything: in this case, only medical assistance can help.

Further treatment is carried out in a hospital setting.

Diagnostics

Upon arrival at the medical facility, the patient is assigned the following tests:

  • study of the acid-base state and identification of electrolytes in the bloodstream;
  • biochemical blood test;
  • electrocardiography;
  • x-ray.

To determine isopropanol in the blood and urine, an analysis of biological media is carried out, which will help to identify the quantitative content of the substance. If isopropanol is detected, a toxicological study is repeated throughout the day, as well as after treatment.

Therapy

Elimination of the pathological condition includes the following activities.

Stabilization of the patient's well-being

The victim is placed in intensive care, carrying out the introduction of a catheter into a vein, as well as cleaning the oral and nasal cavities to restore respiratory function.

AT severe cases use an air outlet or an endotracheal tube. With a significant violation of the respiratory abilities of the patient, artificial ventilation of the lungs is carried out.

Recovery reduced pressure the patient is administered prednisolone, dopamine, mezaton.

extracting the poison

If the toxin did not have time to dissolve in the bloodstream, the stomach is washed with a probe. However, liquid drunk over three hours ago cannot be removed by such procedures.

To eliminate the remaining elements, carry out the following activities:

  • stimulation of urination;
  • non-invasive enterosorption.

In addition, after a few hours, the stomach is washed again, since toxins can be released into the digestive tract in a small amount.

Use of an antidote

Ethanol helps neutralize the toxic effects of isopropyl alcohol. The substance is administered intravenously by combining with a solution of glucose or sodium chloride. In addition, ethanol can be administered orally.

Symptomatic treatment

Such therapy is carried out taking into account the existing symptoms.

  • When the heart is disturbed, the patient is prescribed cardiac glycosides, electrolyte drugs, nitroglycerin.
  • With a decrease in blood pressure, cordiamine, caffeine and synthetic hormones are used.
  • When painful symptoms appear, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used.

This organic compound is considered less dangerous than wood alcohol, but it can cause serious consequences when taken in large quantities. The outcome of poisoning depends on the timely provision of medical assistance, individual characteristics human, as well as other substances that have entered the body together with isopropanol.

Most often, patients with a mild and moderate stage of poisoning recover after 2-4 weeks. Severe cases of intoxication, even with resuscitation, usually end in death.

it Chemical substance used for medical purposes for primary processing, in industry. We will find out what is isopropyl alcohol is, whether it is harmful to health, symptoms of poisoning with such a substance.

What is isopropyl alcohol?

In chemistry, isopropyl alcohol has such names as isopropanol, dimethylcarinol. In everyday life you can meet any of these terms. Its difference from propanol is that it has a different arrangement of the CH3 radical. It is similar to ethanol, so it is drunk by negligence, mistaking it for an alcoholic drink.

Let's get acquainted with the properties of isopropyl alcohol:

  1. It burns very quickly and does not produce smoke or soot. During combustion, carbon dioxide and water are formed.
  2. It has less toxicity than propanol. Therefore, it is used in some cases in cosmetology.
  3. It is a very good solvent.
  4. It can dissolve in water in any proportions.
  5. During the dehydrogenation reaction, it turns into acetone.
  6. Has a pungent odor.
  7. Its density is less than water.
  8. When mixed with air, an explosive mixture is formed.

What happens if you drink isopropyl alcohol? If small amounts of such a substance enter the body, alcohol intoxication will occur. Moreover, the intoxicating effect develops from the ingestion of even a small amount of alcohol. It is more toxic than ethanol.

Where is this substance used?

It is used in many industries. Its main advantage is its excellent properties as a solvent.

  • Recently, it has been increasingly used instead of ethanol as a solvent.
  • For medical purposes, it is used as an excellent disinfectant.
  • This substance is part of many cosmetic and perfumery products.
  • Used as a repellant.
  • It is an excellent stabilizer for aviation fuel.
  • It is used as a solvent in the production of various paint and varnish products.
  • Isopropyl alcohol is found in many household cleaning products.
  • This substance is part of antifreeze - special formulations, not freezing at low temperatures.
  • Based on isopropyl alcohol, adhesives and other substances suitable for the production of printed circuit boards.

How can you get poisoned?

Isopropyl alcohol poisoning occurs at home or at work. This is due to the fact that it is available to almost everyone. Recently, due to the spread of alcoholic substitutes, poisoning is possible due to its ingestion.

Is isopropyl alcohol harmful to health? It is strictly forbidden to ingest it as a substitute for alcohol. This action is tantamount to the use of poison, which acts on the human body slowly. When this alcohol enters the body, it is converted into acetone. Increased amount of acetone in cells and tissues human body causes severe poisoning.

main reason poisoning with this substance is its ingestion. It causes a very strong alcohol intoxication. At the same time, addiction to it develops very quickly. Oral consumption of even 50 ml of alcohol leads to acute poisoning.

You can also get poisoned by isopropyl alcohol vapors. This can happen if the substance was spilled inside an enclosed space, and the person long time inhaled the vapors of the poisonous substance.

Most often, isopropyl alcohol poisoning occurs among socially disadvantaged persons without a fixed place of residence and suffering from the last stages of alcoholism.

The pathogenesis of poisoning

The scheme of isopropanol poisoning is as follows:

  1. Absorption of the substance in the gastric mucosa.
  2. Entry into the blood.
  3. Metabolism of isopropyl alcohol in the liver with the help of alcohol dehydrogenase (about 90 percent of the poison is processed this way).
  4. Excretion of a small amount of chemically unchanged substance with the lungs and kidneys.
  5. Breakdown of isopropanol in the blood to dimethyl ketone.
  6. The development of toxic ketonemia and damage to the kidneys, liver and brain.

The half-life of such a substance is about 7 hours. The lethal amount of alcohol is about 250-300 ml when taken orally. 50 milliliters is enough to make a person feel very drunk (as a rule, further use of isopropanol is stopped).

It should also be remembered that the main damaging factor with internal use of small doses of isopropyl alcohol (up to 50 ml) is the product of its decay, that is, acetone.

Symptoms of intoxication

Signs of alcohol intoxication are as follows:

  • Acute alcohol intoxication. A person has impaired gait, coherence of movements, speech.
  • When isopropyl alcohol enters a person, deep sleep can occur.
  • With an excess amount of isopropanol, a person experiences pain in the head, severe fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and very strong, repeated vomiting.
  • There are strong pain sensations in the muscles, lower back, joints, chest, body.
  • An increased amount of isopropyl alcohol can lead to severe visual impairment: the appearance of fog in the field of vision, flies, diplopia.
  • When inhaling concentrated vapors of isopropyl alcohol, reflex respiratory arrest may occur. In severe cases, a person has a disorder in the work of the respiratory center.
  • In severe degrees of poisoning, the skin becomes cold, marbled or bluish. The breathing of such a person is superficial, the pulse is not palpable, it rises sharply arterial pressure and develop toxic seizures.
  • If the concentration of a poisonous substance in the blood reaches 1.2 ppm, then deep sleep and death are possible.
  • An intestinal lesion develops with the release of bloody discharge.
  • There is a smell of acetone from the air.

The harm of isopropyl alcohol is obvious. It should not be taken orally under any circumstances.

First aid

Isopropyl alcohol is a medium toxic substance. But its effect will depend on how much a person has consumed it inside. The most unfavorable moment in the treatment of intoxication with isopropyl alcohol may be the absence of an antidote in specific conditions - a remedy that can neutralize it. Therefore, at the initial signs of intoxication, you should consult your doctor.

The first aid steps are:

  1. The patient needs more warm water.
  2. It is necessary to enter a laxative.
  3. Provided that the patient is conscious, he must be given a sorbent - for example,.

Other actions (for example, applying a heating pad to the stomach or legs, giving a strong laxative, alcohol and other drinks) are strictly contraindicated. It is forbidden to give any antispasmodics or analgesics, a strong saline laxative. The poisoned person must be taken to medical institution.

Features of treatment

In the conditions of inpatient treatment, symptomatic therapy is prescribed:

  • The patient is injected with saline and plasma-like components in large quantities.
  • Intravenous drip of vitamins is used.
  • If necessary, hormones are prescribed (for example, Prednisolone).
  • Measures are being taken to correct the acid-base balance.

Stabilization of the patient's state of health is carried out even at the pre-hospital stage - that is, when he is placed in the intensive care unit. For resuscitation, central vein catheterization is performed, the patient's mouth and nose are cleaned (to ensure normal breathing). If the poisoned people have acute respiratory failure, then they are connected to the apparatus artificial ventilation lungs.

Poison can be removed by gastric lavage. For this, a thick gastric tube is inserted. If the patient drank alcohol more than three hours ago, then washing is useless. If it is necessary to isolate the absorbed poison, then the following procedures are used:

  1. Dialysis.
  2. Forced diuresis.
  3. Enterosorption.
  4. Washing the gastrointestinal tract.

Ethyl alcohol is used as a specific antidote. It is strictly forbidden to drink it inside in case of poisoning! Ethanol is injected into the body by intravenous drip (0.5 l of a 10% solution in glucose is used - 5 or 10 percent). If the patient is intolerant to glucose, then isotonic sodium chloride solution can be used.

With timely treatment, recovery occurs.

Diagnostics

Laboratory determination poisoning includes:

  • blood analysis;
  • blood tests for electrolytes;
  • biochemical blood test;
  • electrocardiogram;
  • chest x-ray.

What are the consequences of intoxication?

The use of isopropanol is dangerous not only for the symptoms of poisoning, but also for the consequences. A person is at high risk of developing:

  1. Diseases of the liver and kidneys (the liver is poisoned by the products of processing of the substance).
  2. Gastritis.
  3. Ulcers of the stomach and duodenum.
  4. Paralysis.
  5. Severe dysfunction at work nervous system.
  6. Severe disorders of the hormonal system.

The prognosis for poisoning worsens markedly if the patient drank a significant amount of alcohol. The outcome of treatment will depend on how qualified and quality the treatment was.

Video: isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol).

How to prevent poisoning?

In order to prevent intoxication when working with isopropyl alcohol, such measures must be observed.

  • If the maximum permissible concentration of such a substance in the room rises, then a gas mask must be used.
  • If you work with a liquid and spill it, you should remember that its vapors can also enter the body through the respiratory tract. In this case, the room should be well ventilated.
  • It is desirable that the room has equipment to control the concentration of isopropanol in the air.
  • Alcohol should be stored in packages that exclude evaporation.

The liquid is stored out of the reach of children. Because of their ignorance, they may take isopropanol by mouth. Severe poisoning in such cases can occur even as a result of the use of 10 grams of the substance.

Isopropanol is poisonous substance, and its internal use is unacceptable. When the first signs of intoxication appear, you should immediately begin gastric lavage and call an ambulance.

Propan-2-ol Abbreviations Isopropanol, 2-propanol Traditional names Isopropyl alcohol Chemical formula CH 3 CH(OH)CH 3 Empirical formula C3H8O Physical Properties Condition (st. conv.) liquid Rel. molek. weight 60.09 a. eat. Molar mass 60.09 g/mol Density 0.7851 g/cm³ Dynamic viscosity (St. cond.) 0.00243 Pa s
(at 20 °C) Thermal properties Melting temperature -89.5°C Boiling temperature 82.4°C Flash point 11.7°C Auto ignition temperature 400°C Molar heat capacity (st. arb.) 155.2 J/(mol K) Steam pressure 4.4 kPa at 20 °C Chemical properties pK a 16,5 Solubility in benzene highly soluble Solubility in acetone soluble Optical properties Refractive index 1,3776 Structure Dipole moment 1,66 Classification Reg. CAS number 67-63-0 SMILES CC(O)C Safety Toxicity quite high

Isopropyl alcohol, propanol-2 (2-propanol), isopropanol, dimethylcarbinol, IPS- the simplest secondary monohydric alcohol of the aliphatic series. There is an isomer of isopropanol - 1-propanol. Belongs to substances of the 3rd hazard class (moderately dangerous substances) according to the degree of impact on the body, has a narcotic effect. The MPC limit for isopropanol vapor in the air is 10 mg/m3. Poisoning with isopropyl alcohol occurs as a result of inhalation of vapors containing a concentration exceeding the MPC, does not have cumulative properties. Ingestion even in small doses causes poisoning. It is widely used as an industrial alcohol in glass cleaners, office equipment, etc. and as a solvent in industry (where solvents are needed).

Properties

Chemical properties

Chemical formula (rational) of isopropyl alcohol: CH 3 CH(OH)CH 3 .

Isopropanol has the properties of secondary fatty alcohols, including the formation of ethers and esters. The hydroxyl group can be displaced by representatives of a number of halogens. With aromatic compounds, isopropyl alcohol condenses to form derivatives such as isopropylbenzene and isopropyltoluene. Many are readily soluble in isopropanol. essential oils, alkaloids, some synthetic resins and other chemical compounds. When dehydrogenated, it turns into acetone.

Reacts with strong oxidants. Aggressive against certain types of plastic and rubber.

Physical Properties

A colorless liquid with a characteristic alcohol odor, sharper than ethanol (by which they can be distinguished in some cases), melting point -89.5 ° C, boiling point 82.4 ° C, density 0.7851 g / cm³ (at 20 °C), flash t 11.7 °C. lower limit explosiveness in air 2.5% by volume (at 25 °C). Auto-ignition temperature 456 °C. Refractive index 1.3776 (in liquid state, at 20°C). Dynamic viscosity under standard conditions 2.43 mPa·s. Molar heat capacity (st. conditional) - 155.2 J / (mol K).

Steam mixes well with air and easily forms explosive mixtures. Vapor pressure - 4.4 kPa (at 20 ° C). Relative vapor density - 2.1, relative density of the vapor / air mixture - 1.05 (at 20 ° C).

Let's dissolve in acetone, we will well dissolve in benzene, with other solvents (water, organic) mixes up in any ratios. Forms an azeotropic mixture with water (87.9% isopropyl alcohol, boiling point 83.38 °C).

The dependence of the freezing point of a mixture of isopropyl alcohol with water on the concentration of isopropyl alcohol in the mixture is presented in the table:

Concentration
alcohol
about %
Concentration
alcohol
the weight %
Temperature
freezing
°C
0 0 0
10 8 −4
20 17 −7
30 26 −15
40 34 −18
50 44 −21
60 54 −23
70 65 −29
80 76 −37*
90 88 −57*
100 100 −90*

(*There is hypothermia)

Receipt

There are two methods industrial production isopropanol - hydrogenation of acetone and hydration of propylene.

The main way to obtain isopropanol in Russian industry is the sulfuric acid hydration of propylene

CH 3 CH \u003d CH 2 + H 2 SO 4 → (CH 3) 2 CHOSO 3 H + H 2 O → (CH 3) 2 CHOH.

The propane-propylene fraction with a propylene content of 30-90% (fraction of pyrolysis and oil cracking) can serve as a raw material. However, there is a tendency to use pure propylene, since in this case the process can be carried out at low pressures, the formation of by-products of the reaction - polymers and acetone - is sharply reduced. At the first stage of the process, a sulfuric acid extract is formed containing an equilibrium mixture of isopropyl alcohol, isopropyl sulfate (CH3) 2 CHOSO 2 OH, H 2 SO 4 and H 2 O, at the second stage, the sulfuric acid extract is heated with water and the resulting isopropyl alcohol is removed. Direct hydration of propylene is carried out mainly in the presence of a solid catalyst (process conditions are indicated in brackets): H 3 PO 4 on a support (240-260°C; 2.5-6.5 MPa) or a cation exchange resin (130-160°C; 8.0-10.0 MPa). Isopropyl alcohol is also obtained by the oxidation of paraffins with air and other methods.

Modern way:

In Russia, isopropanol is produced from propylene at Synthetic Alcohol Plant CJSC (Orsk) and by the method of acetone hydrogenation with hydrogen - Sintez Acetone LLC (Dzerzhinsk)

Application

Isopropyl alcohol is used to obtain:

  • acetone (dehydrogenation or partial oxidation)
  • methyl isobutyl ketone
  • isopropyl acetate
  • isopropylamine.

Due to special state regulation ethanol, isopropyl alcohol is often a substitute for it in many of its applications. So, isopropanol is a part of:

  • cosmetics
  • perfumery
  • household chemicals
  • disinfectants
  • products for cars (antifreeze, solvent in winter windshield washers)
  • repellents
  • washings of printed circuit boards after soldering with flux, sold under the name "Universal Cleaner".

Isopropyl alcohol is used in industry, when cutting aluminum, turning, milling and other works. In a mixture with oil, it can significantly increase productivity. Isopropyl alcohol is used as a reference standard in gas chromatography (for example, when testing medicines for residual organic solvents).

The medicine

70% isopropyl alcohol is used instead of ethyl alcohol as an antiseptic for impregnating medical wipes.

Impact on a person

Irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract, with brief exposure to high concentrations of vapors causes headache. May have a depressant effect on the central nervous system. Exposure at levels well above the MPC may cause loss of consciousness. Isopropanol, when taken orally, is metabolized in the liver by alcohol dehydrogenase to acetone, which causes its toxic effect. Small doses of isopropanol, as a rule, do not cause significant disorders. Serious toxic effects on a healthy adult by oral use can be achieved already at doses of the order of 50 ml or more.

The maximum allowable concentration of isopropanol in the air is 10 milligrams per cubic meter.

Isopropanol is organoleptically distinctly different from ethanol and can not be mistaken for ethanol. It has a smell different from ethanol, more “rough”. When ingested, it causes intoxication, similar to alcohol. Isopropanol is oxidized in the body with the participation of aldehyde dehydrogenase to acetone. The oxidation rate is on average 2 - 2.5 times lower than that of ethanol, so isopropanol intoxication is very persistent. With frequent use of isopropanol, intolerance quickly develops, and in some cases - hypersensitivity and allergy. Although the toxicity of isopropanol is about 3.5 times greater than that of ethanol, its intoxicating effect is also 10 times higher. For this reason, fatal poisoning with isopropanol has not been recorded, since a person falls into an alcoholic trance much earlier than he can independently take a lethal dose of isopropanol.

Narcotic properties

Isopropyl alcohol is narcotic. The narcotic effect of isopropanol is almost 2 times higher than that of ethanol. A concentration of 1.2%, acting for 4 hours, has a narcotic effect. With a similar exposure for 8 hours - in half of the cases, a fatal outcome is observed.

Notes

Isopropyl alcohol - a unique solution with a wide range of applications

Isopropyl alcohol, or as it is also called in the common people "medical alcohol" - means a chemical compound with the molecular formula - C3H8O. At its core, it is a flammable, colorless, and very strong-smelling chemical compound that is used for a variety of purposes. The simplest example of this is secondary alcohol, in which an alcoholic carbon is similarly attached to two other carbons.

It dissolves completely in various liquids: alcohol, water, ether and chloroform. Due to its properties, isopropyl can dissolve polyvinyl butyral, ethyl cellulose, alkaloids, many oils, natural resins and rubber. It is immediately worth noting that it does not interact with salt solutions. A mixture of water and isopropyl alcohol has low temperature melting, a little bitter taste and it is absolutely impossible to drink it.

Absolute isopropyl alcohol has a maximum absorbance of 204 nm in the ultraviolet spectrum. Like most alcohols, isopropyl alcohol actively interacts with active metals, such as potassium, due to which it forms alkoxides, which are also called isopropoxides.

Production process of isopropyl alcohol

In 1994, more than 1.5 million tons of alcohol were produced in the USA, Europe and Japan. Its production to a greater extent occurs by combining propylene and water. Secondary in this process is the hydrogenation of acetone. In turn, hydration is carried out by two types: indirect hydration and direct hydration.

The first of the listed methods by which isopropyl alcohol is produced, the price at which is significantly lower, respectively, and low quality. The production of such low-quality alcohol is concentrated in the USA. More quality solution receive in Europe.

Indirect hydration is the production of isopropyl alcohol by reacting propylene with sulfuric acid to produce a mixture of sulfate esters. Further hydrolysis of such esters results in distilled isopropyl alcohol. Diisopropyl ether is an important by-product this process: it can be recycled and hydrolyzed to get the substance you need.

Direct hydration is unique technology, which is the reaction between propylene and water in the liquid or gas phase at high pressure in the presence of acid catalysts. Using this method, you can get the purest isopropyl alcohol, which can be bought in many specialized stores.

Both types involve the separation of isopropyl alcohol from water and other by-products by distillation. Thanks to this, we get a product that consists of 88% alcohol and 12% ordinary water.

Where is an organic solvent used?

Before you ask yourself the question: "where to buy isopropyl alcohol"? You need to figure out what it is for, namely, where is it used?

Most of this alcohol is used as a solvent for various coatings and during production processes. Also, due to the low content of toxicity of residues, it is in high demand in the pharmaceutical industry. In small quantities, a similar alcohol is used in intermediate compounds in chemistry.

A significant part of the alcohol produced in the USA, Japan and Europe was used in everyday life for cosmetic purposes, as well as as an additive for gasoline. It dissolves many non-polar mixtures without any problems, and also evaporates quickly and is non-toxic when compared to most of its analogues. An example of the use of isopropyl alcohol is the cleaning of connectors, electronic devices, magnetic tapes, disk heads, as well as laser lenses in optical drives. It is used in cases where it is necessary to bring shine to used or worn non-vinyl records. It can be used during the removal of stains from oils and other petroleum products, as well as stains from fabrics, cotton and wood.

The medicine

In medicine, as a rule, tampons with a 60-70% solution of isopropyl alcohol are used. A 75% solution is used as a hand sanitizer.

Automotive industry

Isopropyl alcohol is the main ingredient in various fuel additives to remove excess water from gasoline. And, as you know, water is a serious enemy during frosts, because. unlike fuel, it can freeze in winter, thereby preventing the car from starting, and moreover, spoiling the pipes through which fuel is pumped. It is often sold in aerosol cans as a windshield defroster.

In laboratories

Buying isopropyl alcohol Moscow means buying worthy alternative formaldehyde and other synthetic preservatives. 99% solutions (the purest) are used to preserve analyzes and DNA sampling.

Safety of isopropyl alcohol

The vapors emitted by isopropyl alcohol are substantially denser than air and are flammable if contained in the air in the range of 2 to 12%. For this reason, it must be kept as far away from high temperature and especially from open flames. In addition to this, he is prominent representative skin irritant.

Such a solution acts as a depressant for the central nervous system, thereby causing headache, diarrhea, depression, dizziness, vomiting, nausea, complete loss of sensation and coma. Departure can be due to both inhalation, ingestion, and absorption, so it should only be handled in well-checked areas and also handled with protective gloves. If nothing is done, then 15 g of alcohol for 70 kg of a person is enough to make them fatal.