Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)

Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), also known as 2-propanol.

  • Chemical formula: C₃H₈O (or C₃H₇OH)
  • Molecular weight: 60.1 g/mol
  • Boiling point: ~82.6 °C (180.7 °F)
  • Melting point: –89 °C (–128 °F)
  • Flash point: ~12 °C (53.6 °F), making it highly flammable
  • Miscibility: Completely miscible with water, ethanol, acetone, and most organic solvents

Application & Usage

  • Disinfectants/antiseptics (commonly in 70% IPA solutions, as this concentration is more effective at killing microbes than 100%)
  • Cleaning electronic devices and optics (due to fast evaporation and lack of residue)
  • Solvent in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, paints, and coatings
  • Industrial degreaser
  • Laboratory reagent