Diacetone Alcohol (DAA)
Other Names
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4-Hydroxy-4-methylpentan-2-one
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DAA
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4-Hydroxy-4-methyl-2-pentanone
CAS Number: 123-42-2
Chemical Formula: C₆H₁₂O₂
Molecular Weight: 116.16 g/mol
📘 1. Definition
Diacetone Alcohol is a colorless, viscous liquid with a mild odor. It is widely used as a solvent, chemical intermediate, and paint/coating additive. DAA has good solvency for resins, oils, and various polymers, making it valuable in paints, coatings, adhesives, and industrial formulations.
🧪 2. Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₆H₁₂O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 116.16 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Odor | Mild, acetone-like |
| Boiling Point | 169–170 °C |
| Melting Point | –46 °C |
| Density | 0.951 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Miscible with most organic solvents; slight solubility in water |
| Flash Point | 87 °C |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions; flammable |
🧰 3. Applications / Uses
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Paints & Coatings | Solvent for alkyds, acrylics, nitrocellulose, and epoxy coatings |
| Adhesives & Sealants | Solvent and intermediate for adhesives and sealants |
| Printing Inks | Solvent and coalescent in inks |
| Chemical Industry | Intermediate for methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) production and other chemical syntheses |
| Polymers & Resins | Solvent for resins, plasticizers, and polymer dispersions |
| Cleaning & Degreasing | Component in industrial cleaners for oils, greases, and waxes |
| Textile & Leather | Solvent for dye formulations and finishing agents |
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Function as Solvent: DAA dissolves resins, oils, and polymers efficiently, improving flow, leveling, and drying in coatings.
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Advantages: High solvency, low volatility compared to acetone, compatible with many organic systems.
⚠️ 4. Safety & Handling
| Hazard | Details |
|---|---|
| Flammability | Flammable liquid; flash point 87 °C |
| Health | Can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation; ingestion harmful |
| PPE | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, and ventilation recommended |
| Storage | Store in cool, dry, ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and strong oxidizers |
| Handling | Avoid inhalation and contact with skin; use in well-ventilated areas |
📌 5. Summary
Diacetone Alcohol (DAA) is a versatile industrial solvent and chemical intermediate used in paints, coatings, adhesives, inks, and chemical manufacturing. Its good solvency, chemical stability, and low volatility make it an essential component in many industrial formulations, though proper flammable liquid handling and PPE precautions are necessary.
