Isopropyl Alcohol IPA (Isopropanol)
Propan-2-ol; Isopropanol; 2-Propanol; 2-Hydroxypropane
Isopropyl Alcohol (Isopropanol) – Summary
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), also known as isopropanol, is a colourless, volatile liquid used primarily as a solvent and degreasing agent. It is widely used in electronics, automotive applications, printing, household cleaning products, cosmetics, and the manufacture of paints and coatings. Centro-chem supplies technical-grade and EP/USP-grade IPA on a wholesale basis, in packaging suitable for different levels of industrial consumption.
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Where to Buy Isopropyl Alcohol?
Choosing a Supplier
Are you looking for a wholesale supplier of isopropyl alcohol for industrial or manufacturing applications? Centro-chem supplies technical-grade and EP/USP-grade IPA in 5, 10, 20 and 30-litre canisters, 200-litre drums and 1,000-litre IBC containers. We also provide the required documentation and arrange ADR-compliant transport.
Why Buy Isopropyl Alcohol from Centro-chem?
- ADR transport arrangements – we organise deliveries using suitable vehicles and drivers with the required qualifications.
- Our own warehousing facilities – storing the product in our own facilities helps streamline order fulfilment and plan repeat deliveries.
- Quality and transport documentation – each order includes the documents required to verify the raw material, receive the delivery and use it in further production.
- Efficient order fulfilment – IPA is part of our regular product range, enabling us to confirm purchasing terms quickly and arrange delivery efficiently.
What Is Isopropanol?
Raw Material Characteristics
Isopropanol, also known as isopropyl alcohol (IPA), is an organic chemical compound that occurs under standard conditions as a clear, colourless liquid with a characteristic, strong odour. Due to its physicochemical properties and relatively low toxicity, it is widely used as a solvent and degreasing agent across a range of industrial and consumer applications.
Physicochemical Properties
Solubility and Rapid Evaporation
Isopropanol has a relatively low boiling point of approximately 82.6°C, high volatility and good solubility in both water and organic solvents. It is highly flammable, and its vapours can form explosive mixtures with air. Its strong degreasing properties and rapid evaporation make it particularly suitable for applications that require fast drying without leaving residues.
How Is Isopropyl Alcohol Used?
Degreasing and Solvent Properties of Isopropanol
Isopropanol performs a range of technical and functional roles depending on the industry. It is widely used as a powerful degreasing and cleaning agent, effectively removing grease, oils, fats and stubborn contaminants from metal, glass and plastic surfaces. It is also a fast-evaporating solvent used in paints, inks and coatings where rapid drying without streaks or residues is required.
Isopropanol as a Solvent in Various Industries
Use of IPA in Industrial Processes
Isopropanol is a valuable raw material used across a wide range of industries. These include:
- Leather industry – isopropyl alcohol helps remove grease and contaminants from hides before tanning.
- Printing industry – used in offset printing as a component of fountain solutions and as a solvent for printing inks.
- Construction – used in cleaning agents and primers.
- Household cleaning products – used in formulations for cleaning glass, screens, electronic equipment and kitchen surfaces.
- Plastics industry – used for cleaning injection moulds and production lines.
Chemical Manufacturing
Isopropyl Alcohol in Household and Construction Chemicals
In household cleaning products, isopropanol is used as a component of cleaning formulations, electronics care products and glass cleaners. It effectively removes grease, resins, inks and other stubborn contaminants without leaving streaks or residues. In construction chemicals, isopropanol is used in primers, tool and surface cleaners, as well as antiseptic formulations. In paints and coatings, it acts as a fast-drying solvent, improving flow, reducing foaming and enhancing coating durability.
Isopropyl Alcohol in the Automotive Industry
IPA as a Component of Automotive Fluids
In the automotive industry, isopropanol is widely used as a cleaning, maintenance and solvent agent. It enables thorough degreasing of metal and plastic surfaces before painting or bonding, removing petroleum-based contaminants, oils and dust. IPA is also used to clean electronic systems and sensors, as it has low electrical conductivity and can be used on delicate electronic components and connectors. In addition, isopropyl alcohol may be used as a component of automotive fluids, including windscreen washer fluids, de-icers, degreasers and fuel system cleaning products.
Other Applications of Isopropanol
Cosmetics and Petrochemical Industries
Isopropanol is a versatile raw material with a wide range of applications. In addition to the chemical and automotive industries, it is also used in:
- Cosmetics – isopropyl alcohol is used in products such as deodorants, toners and aftershaves. It helps degrease the skin, supports the absorption of active ingredients and speeds up product drying.
- Petrochemical industry – isopropanol is used as an auxiliary solvent in organic synthesis and as a cleaning agent for industrial equipment and installations.
Isopropanol is a volatile, fast-evaporating alcohol with strong degreasing properties, widely used as a versatile solvent and cleaning agent in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, automotive and chemical industries.
Isopropyl Alcohol – FAQ
What Packaging Sizes Is Isopropyl Alcohol Available In?
Isopropyl alcohol is available from Centro-chem in 5–30 litre canisters, 200 litre drums and 1,000 litre IBC containers.
Is Isopropyl Alcohol Subject to ADR Regulations?
Yes, isopropyl alcohol is subject to ADR requirements. At Centro-chem, deliveries are supported by our own fleet and a team of drivers experienced in transporting this type of hazardous material.
How Should Isopropyl Alcohol Be Stored?
Isopropyl alcohol should be stored in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area. Due to its flammability, the storage area should be protected from heat sources, ignition sources and electrostatic discharge. Detailed storage conditions should always be checked in the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
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