Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol (IUPAC name propan-2-ol and also called isopropanol or 2-propanol) is a colorless, flammable organic compound (chemical formula CH₃CHOHCH₃) with a strong alcoholic odor. As an isopropyl group linked to a hydroxyl group, it is the simplest example of a secondary alcohol, where the alcohol carbon atom is attached to two other carbon atoms. It is a structural isomer of propan-1-ol and ethyl methyl ether.

It is used in the manufacture of a wide variety of industrial and household chemicals and is a common ingredient in products such as antiseptics, disinfectants, hand sanitizer and detergents. Well over one million tonnes is produced worldwide annually.

The main difference between isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol is the concentration. The concentration of isopropyl alcohol is nearly 100%, while the concentration of rubbing alcohol is less because of the addition of water.

Otherwise, the two liquids have similar properties. They are antibacterial and antiseptic. They are also both flammable, and toxic when inhaled or ingested.

Intex International offers pure (99.5%) IPA to its clients for commercial applications. Our clients use it to prepare rubbing alcohol by adding water. That is used in degreasing and preparation of base before applying ceramic coating. It is also used for tucking edges of paint protection films.