Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling point | 82.6 °C | °C |
| Flash point | 12 °C | °C |
| Density | 0.785 g/cm³ | g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Miscible with water | - |
| Ph | N/A | - |
| Molecular weight | 60.10 g/mol | g/mol |
| Melting point | -89.5 °C | °C |
| Vapor pressure | 43 mmHg at 20°C | mmHg |
| Autoignition temp | 399 °C | - |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid | - |
| Odor | Slight alcohol odor | - |
| Vapor density | 2.07 (air = 1) | g/cm³ |
Overview
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), also known as 2-propanol or isopropanol, is a versatile organic compound with the molecular formula C₃H₈O. This clear, colorless liquid with a slight alcohol odor serves as one of the most widely used solvents and disinfectants in industrial, laboratory, and commercial applications. With its excellent solvent properties, rapid evaporation rate, and antimicrobial effectiveness, isopropyl alcohol has become an essential chemical for manufacturers, laboratories, and facilities requiring reliable cleaning and degreasing solutions.
Key Applications
Isopropyl alcohol excels as an industrial solvent for cleaning electronic components, precision instruments, and optical equipment due to its ability to dissolve oils, resins, and other organic compounds while leaving no residue upon evaporation. Its antimicrobial properties make it highly effective as a disinfectant for sanitizing surfaces, equipment, and tools in healthcare, pharmaceutical, and food processing environments. In laboratory settings, IPA serves as a crucial reagent for extractions, sample preparation, and general cleaning of glassware and instruments. Additionally, it functions as a chemical intermediate in the production of acetone, glycerol, and various esters, while also serving as an effective de-icing agent for automotive and aviation applications.
Safety & Handling
Isopropyl alcohol has a flash point of 12°C, making it a flammable liquid that requires careful handling and storage away from ignition sources. Workers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, and protective clothing when handling IPA. Ensure adequate ventilation in work areas to prevent vapor accumulation, as the vapor density of 2.07 means IPA vapors are heavier than air and can settle in low-lying areas. The autoignition temperature of 399°C provides guidance for safe heating operations, but always maintain temperatures well below this threshold.
Storage & Shelf Life
Store isopropyl alcohol in tightly sealed containers made of compatible materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, or certain plastics in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Maintain storage temperatures below 25°C to minimize evaporation and maintain product integrity. Keep IPA away from strong oxidizing agents, acids, and alkaline materials to prevent unwanted reactions. When stored properly in original containers, isopropyl alcohol maintains its quality indefinitely, though regular quality checks are recommended for critical applications.
Why Alliance Chemical
Alliance Chemical provides high-quality Isopropyl Alcohol with same-day shipping from our Taylor, Texas facility to customers throughout the region. We offer flexible delivery options including UPS for smaller quantities, LTL for medium orders, and FTL for bulk shipments, ensuring you receive your chemical supplies when you need them. Every order includes comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Certificates of Analysis (COA) to support your regulatory compliance and quality assurance programs, giving you confidence in product consistency and purity.
Shipping & Availability
Parcel Shipping
UPS Ground supports pints, quarts, and most 1-gallon packages nationwide.
LTL Freight
5-gallon pails, drums, and totes move via LTL carriers such as ABF Freight, SEFL, Saia, and XPO.
Full Truckload
FTL available for palletized bulk orders. Competitive freight rates.
Local Pickup
Same-day pickup at our Taylor, TX warehouse for Texas customers.