IPA (Isopropanol)

DESCRIPTION

Isopropanol, also known as isopropyl alcohol or IPA, is a colorless, flammable, strong-smelling alcohol that is highly miscible with water. It is a simple example of a secondary alcohol, where the alcohol group is attached to a carbon which, in turn, is connected to two other carbons. When oxidized, isopropanol is converted to acetone. This compound is widely used in industry and everyday life due to its effectiveness as a cleaning agent, especially in electronic devices, screens and lenses, as it leaves very little residue. In addition to its use as a cleaner, isopropanol has applications in various fields. In analytical chemistry, it is used as a solvent in chromatography and to suppress foam formation. In medicine, it is used to dry ears and prevent otitis externa, as a hand disinfectant and as a general antiseptic. In the automotive industry, it acts as a gasoline additive and antifreeze. It is also valuable in biological laboratories for preserving specimens and in DNA extraction. Finally, in the cosmetic and manufacturing industry, it is used in skin products, hair tonics, and in the production of esters, resins and other chemicals.