Isopropyl Acetate (IPAc)
Other Names
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2-Propanol Acetate
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Propan-2-yl acetate
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IPAc
CAS Number: 108-21-4
Chemical Formula: C₅H₁₀O₂
Molecular Weight: 102.13 g/mol
📘 1. Definition
Isopropyl Acetate (IPAc) is a colorless, flammable liquid with a fruity odor, commonly used as a solvent in coatings, paints, inks, adhesives, and pharmaceuticals. It is moderately polar, highly volatile, and miscible with most organic solvents, making it suitable for industrial and laboratory applications. IPAc is preferred in formulations where rapid drying and low residue are required.
🧪 2. Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C₅H₁₀O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 102.13 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Odor | Fruity, sweet |
| Boiling Point | 88–89 °C |
| Melting Point | -73 °C |
| Flash Point | 12 °C (closed cup) |
| Density | 0.88 g/cm³ at 20 °C |
| Solubility | Miscible with organic solvents, slightly soluble in water |
| Vapor Pressure | 33 mmHg at 20 °C |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions; flammable and volatile |
🧰 3. Applications / Uses
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Paints & Coatings | Solvent for lacquers, enamels, varnishes, and spray paints |
| Printing Inks | Solvent for flexographic, gravure, and offset inks |
| Adhesives & Sealants | Solvent for pressure-sensitive adhesives, glues, and sealants |
| Pharmaceuticals | Solvent for drug formulations and extraction |
| Laboratory Use | General solvent for chemical reactions and extractions |
| Cleaning & Degreasing | Solvent for industrial cleaning and degreasing applications |
⚠️ 4. Safety & Handling
| Hazard | Details |
|---|---|
| Flammability | Highly flammable liquid and vapor |
| Health Hazards | Can cause skin and eye irritation; inhalation may cause dizziness, headache, or respiratory irritation |
| Environmental | Volatile organic compound (VOC); avoid release to air and water |
| PPE | Gloves, goggles, protective clothing, and adequate ventilation required |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and open flames |
| Handling | Keep away from ignition sources; avoid inhalation and prolonged skin contact |
📌 5. Summary
Isopropyl Acetate (IPAc) is a versatile, flammable solvent with a fruity odor used primarily in paints, coatings, inks, adhesives, pharmaceuticals, and laboratory applications. Its rapid evaporation, moderate polarity, and low residue make it ideal for industrial and specialty formulations. Careful handling and storage are essential due to its flammable and volatile nature.
