Isopropyl Glycol – Industrial Solvent for Cleaning, Coatings, and Chemical Formulations
Introduction
Isopropyl Glycol, also known as Ethylene Glycol Monoisopropyl Ether or 2-Isopropoxyethanol, is a glycol ether used as an industrial solvent in selected cleaning, coating, and chemical formulation applications. It is valued for its ability to dissolve compatible substances and its miscibility with water, making it useful in specific solvent systems. <Cite refs={["turn678249search0","turn678249search4"]}/>
Isopropyl Glycol is typically a clear, colorless liquid with a mild, ether-like odor. Its solvent properties make it suitable for selected industrial processes requiring a balance of organic solvent characteristics and water compatibility. Because the product is flammable and can be absorbed through the skin, appropriate safety controls are essential during storage and use.
Industrial Applications
Isopropyl Glycol is used in selected industrial and commercial formulations.
- Industrial Cleaning: Used as a solvent in compatible cleaning formulations for removing certain residues and contaminants.
- Coatings and Surface Treatments: Applied in selected coating systems and formulations where its solvent properties are suitable.
- Chemical Manufacturing: Used as a solvent or formulation ingredient in specific chemical processing operations.
- Specialty Formulations: Incorporated into products requiring a water-compatible glycol ether solvent.
- Laboratory Applications: Used as a solvent or reagent in suitable research and testing procedures.
- Industrial Process Formulations: Used in selected applications where controlled solvent performance and compatibility are required.
Key Benefits
- Solvent Performance: Helps dissolve compatible organic materials in selected formulations.
- Water Compatibility: Miscible with water, supporting use in appropriate aqueous solvent systems.
- Liquid Handling: Supplied as a liquid suitable for controlled industrial dosing and blending.
- Formulation Versatility: Can be incorporated into compatible cleaning and coating products.
- Industrial Utility: Suitable for specialized chemical processing and solvent-based applications.
- Established Chemical Identity: Standardized chemical identification supports product selection and quality control.
Product Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Isopropyl Glycol |
| Chemical Name | 2-Isopropoxyethanol |
| Alternative Names | Ethylene Glycol Monoisopropyl Ether, Isopropyl Cellosolve |
| Chemical Formula | C₅H₁₂O₂ |
| CAS Number | 109-59-1 |
| Molecular Weight | 104.15 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Odor | Mild, ether-like odor |
| Boiling Point | Approximately 143°C at atmospheric pressure |
| Density | Approximately 0.90 g/cm³ at 25°C |
| Water Solubility | Miscible with water |
| Chemical Classification | Glycol ether solvent |
| Primary Function | Industrial solvent and formulation ingredient |
| Main Applications | Cleaning products, coatings, chemical formulations, laboratory use |
| Packaging | Supplier-dependent containers and bulk packaging |
| Grade and Purity | According to supplier specifications and Certificate of Analysis (COA) |
Storage and Handling
Isopropyl Glycol is a flammable liquid and may be absorbed through the skin. Exposure can affect the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Appropriate precautions must be followed during handling. <Cite refs={["turn678249search0","turn678249search3"]}/>
- Store in tightly closed, compatible containers in a cool, well-ventilated area.
- Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources.
- Use suitable chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing, and safety goggles.
- Avoid skin and eye contact and prevent inhalation of vapors.
- Provide appropriate ventilation during transfer, mixing, and industrial use.
- Keep away from strong oxidizing agents and other incompatible substances.
- Use suitable equipment and follow workplace procedures for handling flammable liquids.
- Consult the supplier's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for spill response, first aid, fire protection, and disposal instructions.
Quality and Supply
Isopropyl Glycol should be selected according to the requirements of the intended formulation or industrial process. Important purchasing parameters may include chemical purity, water content, appearance, density, and limits for specified impurities.
Before purchasing, review the supplier's Technical Data Sheet (TDS), SDS, and batch-specific COA where available. Confirm the chemical identity and CAS number to distinguish Isopropyl Glycol from similarly named glycol ethers and other solvent products.
Packaging formats and supply quantities depend on the manufacturer and distributor.
Conclusion
Isopropyl Glycol is a glycol ether solvent used in selected industrial cleaning, coating, chemical processing, and specialty formulation applications. Its water compatibility and solvent properties make it useful in appropriately designed formulations.
Correct chemical identification, grade selection, and compatibility testing are important for reliable performance. Because the material is flammable and can be absorbed through the skin, proper storage, ventilation, and protective equipment are essential.
