ACETONE
Acetone is a colorless, highly volatile, and flammable liquid with a characteristic pungent odor, widely used as a solvent in various industries and everyday applications.
Acetone is the simplest and smallest ketone, consisting of a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two methyl groups (-CH3), and is highly miscible with water, alcohol, and other organic solvents.
Acetone is a naturally occurring compound found in volcanic gases, plants, and byproducts of forest fires, but Acetone is primarily manufactured industrially and is used in the production of plastics, fibers, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
CAS Number: 67-64-1
EC Number: 200-662-2
Chemical Formula: C3H6O
Molecular weight: 58.08 g/mol
Synonyms: Propanone, Dimethyl ketone, 2-Propanone, Dimethylformaldehyde, Methyl ketone, β-Ketopropane, Pyroacetic spirit, Ketone propane, Ketone dimethyl, Pyroacetic ether, Ketopropane, Propan-2-one, Beta-ketopropane, Methyl propanone, Propan-2-one, 2-Oxopropane, 2-Ketopropane, Dimethyl formaldehyde, Dimethyl ketone, Dimethylformaldehyde, Dimethylformaldehyde, Ethanone, Methyl acetone, Methyl ethyl ketone, Methylketone, Propanone, dimethyl, Propanone, 2-methyl-, Propanone, 2-propyl-, Pyroacetic ether, Pyroacetic spirit, Pyroacetic alcohol, Pyroacetic acid, Pyroacetic acid ether, Pyroacetic acid methyl ester, Pyroacetic acid, ethyl ester, Pyroacetic acid, methyl ester, 2-Propanone, 1,1-dimethyl-, Ketone propane, Ketone dimethyl, Propanone, 1,1-dimethyl-, Propanone, methyl-, Propione, Dimethylformaldehyde, Dimethylketone, Dimethylformaldehyde, 2-Oxopropane, Propanone, dimethyl-, Propanone, 2-methyl-, Propanone, 2-propyl-, Propanone, 2-methyl-, Ethyl methyl ketone, Methyl acetone, Methyl ethyl ketone, Methylpropane-2-one, Beta-ketopropane, 2-Ketopropane, Pyroacetic acid, Pyroacetic acid ether, Pyroacetic alcohol, Pyroacetic acid methyl ester, Pyroacetic acid, ethyl ester, Pyroacetic acid, methyl ester
Acetone is an organic compound with the formula (CH3)2CO.
Acetone is the simplest and smallest ketone.
Acetone is a colourless, highly volatile and flammable liquid with a characteristic pungent odour.
Acetone is miscible with water and serves as an important organic solvent in Acetones own right, in industry, home, and laboratory.
Acetone is a naturally occurring compound also known as propanone.
Composed of the elements carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, acetone presents as a clear liquid that is highly flammable and often used as cleaner in industrial settings.
Acetone is found in volcanic gases, plants, in byproducts of forest fires, and the breakdown of body fat.
Acetone evaporates very quickly, and while Acetone is produced in nature, for commercial use Acetone is produced by manually combining three carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom to produce the compound element (CH3)2CO, that we call acetone.
Because acetone is both organic and non-toxic, when used properly, Acetone is an element many products that people use every day.
Acetone is the main ingredient in paint thinner, used as a solvent in various cosmetics and facial treatments, as well as a cleaning agent to remove sticky substances like glue or resin.
Acetone is also used as an additive in gasoline that thins the gas allowing Acetone to diffuse more easily through the engine, resulting in higher fuel efficiency.
Acetone is a chemical that is used daily by many people.
Across all industries acetone is necessary for developing new products, cleaning, degreasing, or even saving marine life from detrimental oil spills.
If your business is in need of a solvent like acetone, give us a call 800-563-1305.
Acetone is a colorless, volatile, and flammable organic compound with the chemical formula C3H6O.
Acetone is the simplest and smallest ketone, consisting of a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two methyl groups (-CH3).
Acetone is highly miscible with water, alcohol, and other organic solvents, making Acetone a versatile solvent widely used in various industries and everyday applications.
Acetone is produced naturally in small quantities in the human body through metabolic processes, but it is primarily manufactured industrially.
Acetone is commonly obtained as a byproduct during the production of phenol, where it is derived from cumene.
Acetone can also be synthesized via the oxidation of isopropanol.
Acetone has a distinct fruity or sweet odor and a low boiling point, which contributes to its rapid evaporation.
Acetone is highly volatile and highly flammable, so it should be handled with care and stored properly.
Due to Acetone’s excellent solvent properties, acetone finds applications in many industries.
Acetone is widely used as a solvent for paints, varnishes, resins, and coatings.
Acetone is also used as a cleaning agent for removing oils, greases, and other contaminants from surfaces.
Additionally, acetone is utilized as a solvent in the production of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products.
Moreover, acetone is a key ingredient in many chemical reactions and processes.
Acetone is used as a reactant in the production of various chemicals, including methyl methacrylate, bisphenol-A, and methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK).
Acetone is also utilized as a denaturant in alcohol products and as a fuel additive in some engines.
Acetone is a colorless liquid with a distinct fruity odor.
Acetone has a boiling point of approximately 56 degrees Celsius.
Acetone is highly flammable and should be stored away from open flames or ignition sources.
Acetone is soluble in water, alcohol, and many organic solvents.
Acetone has a rapid evaporation rate due to its low boiling point.
Acetone is a common ingredient in nail polish removers.
Acetone is widely used as a solvent for paints, varnishes, and lacquers.
Acetone is a key component in the production of plastics, fibers, and synthetic resins.
Acetone has a wide range of industrial applications, including cleaning agents and degreasers.
Acetone is used in laboratories for various analytical and research purposes.
Acetone is a volatile organic compound (VOC) and contributes to air pollution when released into the atmosphere.
Acetone has a relatively low toxicity level but can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
Acetone is commonly used as a cleaning agent for removing adhesive residues.
Acetone is a vital component in the production of methyl methacrylate, a key ingredient in acrylic plastics.
Acetone is utilized in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and organic compounds.
Acetone is an important ingredient in the manufacturing of printing inks.
Acetone can be used as a fuel additive to improve combustion efficiency.
Acetone is a volatile solvent commonly used for dissolving and removing grease and oil stains.
Acetone is used as a cleaning solvent for electronic components and circuit boards.
Acetone has a characteristic sweet taste but should never be ingested as it is toxic in large quantities.
Acetone can act as a drying agent, helping to speed up the drying process of certain materials.
Acetone is used in the extraction of natural products, such as essential oils.
Acetone is used in the production of artificial fibers like rayon and acetate.
Acetone is an essential component in the formulation of many personal care products, including perfumes and cosmetics.
Acetone is a versatile chemical compound with numerous industrial, commercial, and household applications.
Uses of Acetone:
Acetone is important organic raw material in the chemical, artificial fiber, medicine, paint, plastics, organic glass, cosmetics and other industries; an excellent organic solvent that dissolves many organic products such as resin, cellulose acetate, acetylene and so on.
Acetone is important raw material for the synthesis of ketene, acetic anhydride, iodoform, polyisoprene rubber, methacrylic acid, methyl ester, chloroform, and epoxy resins.
The acetone cyanohydrin obtained from the reaction of acetone with hydrocyanic acid is the raw material of methacrylic resin (perspex).
Acetone is raw material in the production of epoxy resin intermediate bisphenol A.
In pharmaceuticals, acetone is used as extractants for a variety of vitamins and hormones in addition to vitamin C, and dewaxing solvents for petroleum refining.
Acetone is raw material for nail polish remover in cosmetics.
Acetone is one of the raw materials for synthesizing pyrethroids in pesticide industry.
Acetone is often used to wipe the black ink above the copper tube in the precision copper tube industry.
Industrial Uses:
Acetone is valuable solvent component in acrylic/nitrocellulose automotive lacquers.
Acetone is the solvent of choice in film coatings operations which use vinylidene chloride-acrylonitrile copolymer formulations.
Other ketones that may be used in these film coating operations include methyl isobutyl ketone, ethyl n-amyl ketone, and diisobutyl ketone.
Acetone, blends of MIBK and MEK, methyl namyl ketone, ethyl n-amyl ketone, and diisobutyl ketone are all useful solvents for vinyl resin copolymers.
The presence of one of the slower evaporating ketones in the solvent blend prevents quick drying, improves flow, and gives blush resistance to the coating.
Acetone is also used as a resin thinner in polyester resins and as a clean up solvent for the resin reactor kettle.
In solvents industry, Acetone is a component of solvent blends in urethane, nitrile rubber, and neoprene industrial adhesives.
Acetone is the primary solvent in resin-type adhesives and pressure sensitive chlorinated rubber adhesives.
Acetone also can be used to extract fats, oils, waxes, and resins from natural products, to dewax lubricating oils, and to extract certain essential oils.
Acetone is also an important chemical intermediate in the preparation of several oxygenated solvents including the ketones, diacetone alcohol, mesityl oxide, methyl isobutyl ketone, and isophorone.
Applications of Acetone:
Acetone is widely used as a solvent in industries such as paint, coatings, and adhesives.
Acetone is a common ingredient in nail polish removers, effectively dissolving and removing nail polish.
Acetone finds applications in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent for active ingredients and excipients.
Acetone is used in the synthesis of various chemicals, including methyl methacrylate and bisphenol-A.
Acetone is a valuable cleaning agent and degreaser, widely used in industrial settings.
Acetone is used in the formulation of paints, varnishes, and lacquers, aiding in their proper consistency.
Acetone is utilized in the production of printing inks, helping to dissolve ink components.
Acetone is employed in the extraction of natural products, such as essential oils from plants.
Acetone is used in the formulation of personal care products like perfumes and lotions.
Acetone is utilized in laboratories for various analytical and research purposes.
Acetone is involved in the production of synthetic fibers like rayon and acetate.
Acetone finds applications in the rubber industry, aiding in the extraction and processing of rubber.
Acetone is used in the formulation of adhesives and sealants, facilitating effective bonding.
Acetone is involved in the cleaning and degreasing of electronic components and printed circuit boards.
Acetone is utilized in the automotive industry for cleaning and degreasing auto parts and engines.
Acetone finds applications in analytical chemistry techniques such as chromatography and spectrophotometry.
Acetone is used in the formulation of toners and astringents in the cosmetics and skincare industry.
Acetone is involved in the cleaning of printing plates and removal of inks in the printing industry.
Acetone is used in the production of certain agrochemicals, including pesticides and herbicides.
Acetone finds applications in the production of surface coatings and laminates, such as automotive paints.
Acetone is used in the metalworking industry for cleaning and degreasing metal surfaces.
Acetone is employed as a solvent in the formulation of cleaning agents and household products.
Acetone is used in the production of fiberglass and composite materials.
Acetone finds applications in the production of synthetic rubber and plastic materials.
Acetone is involved in the formulation of solvents and cleaning solutions for various applications.
Acetone is used as a solvent for removing epoxy and resin-based adhesives.
Acetone finds applications in the cleaning and maintenance of glassware and laboratory equipment.
Acetone is employed in the formulation of paint strippers and graffiti removers.
Acetone is used in the production of composite materials, such as carbon fiber-reinforced plastics.
Acetone is involved in the formulation of industrial coatings and protective finishes.
Acetone finds applications in the production of foam plastics and polyurethane materials.
Acetone is used in the manufacturing of electronic components and printed circuit boards.
Acetone finds applications in the formulation of cleaning solutions for optical lenses and camera equipment.
Acetone is used in the recycling and recovery of certain plastics and polymers.
Acetone is employed in the synthesis of various pharmaceutical intermediates and active ingredients.
Acetone finds applications in the production of rubber and polymer-based sealants and gaskets.
Acetone is used in the formulation of rapid-drying inks and markers.
Acetone is involved in the production of solvents for cellulose-based materials, such as cellophane.
Acetone finds applications in the cleaning and maintenance of 3D printing equipment and surfaces.
Acetone is used as a solvent for cleaning and degreasing precision instruments and mechanical parts.
Acetone is employed in the production of solvents and solutions for industrial parts cleaning and degreasing.
Acetone finds applications in the formulation of solvents for the removal of graffiti and paint stains.
Acetone is used in the production of rubber and plastic-based adhesives.
Acetone is involved in the formulation of coatings for metal surfaces, providing protection against corrosion.
Acetone finds applications in the production of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and goggles.
Acetone is used in the formulation of solvents for removing ink and dye stains from fabrics and textiles.
Acetone is employed in the production of automotive cleaning and maintenance products, including carburetor cleaners and brake cleaners.
Acetone finds applications in the formulation of solvents for cleaning and degreasing firearms and weapons.
Acetone is used in the production of solvents for cleaning and maintenance of aircraft and aerospace components.
Acetone is involved in the formulation of solvents for the cleaning and degreasing of marine equipment and surfaces.
Acetone has a wide range of applications across various industries.
Some of Acetone’s key applications include:
Solvent:
Acetone is widely used as a solvent in many industries, including paint, coatings, varnishes, and adhesives.
Acetone effectively dissolves and removes various substances, making it a valuable cleaning agent and solvent for surface preparation.
Nail polish remover:
Acetone is a common ingredient in nail polish removers.
Acetone’s solvent properties help dissolve and remove nail polish quickly and efficiently.
Pharmaceuticals:
Acetone is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent for various active ingredients and excipients during the formulation of medications.
Chemical synthesis:
Acetone serves as a reactant and solvent in the synthesis of numerous chemicals and organic compounds.
Acetone is a key component in the production of methyl methacrylate, bisphenol-A, methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK), and other important chemicals.
Cleaning and degreasing:
Acetone’s excellent solvent properties make it effective for cleaning and degreasing surfaces, machinery, and equipment in industrial settings.
Acetone is commonly used to remove oils, greases, and residues from metal parts.
Paint and coating industry:
Acetone is utilized in the formulation of paints, varnishes, and lacquers.
Acetone helps dissolve and disperse pigments and resins, aiding in the production of high-quality coatings.
Printing industry:
Acetone is used in the production of printing inks.
Acetone helps dissolve the ink components and facilitates smooth and consistent printing.
Extraction of natural products:
Acetone is employed in the extraction of natural products, such as essential oils from plants.
Acetone acts as a solvent, enabling the separation and concentration of the desired compounds.
Personal care products:
Acetone is used in the formulation of various personal care products, including perfumes, lotions, and cosmetics.
Acetone can act as a solvent for fragrance oils and other ingredients.
Laboratory and research:
Acetone finds applications in laboratories for various analytical and research purposes.
Acetone is used as a solvent for chemical reactions, sample preparation, and cleaning laboratory equipment.
Fuel additive:
Acetone can be used as a fuel additive, primarily in engines that use gasoline or diesel.
Acetone is believed to improve combustion efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Fiber and textile industry:
Acetone is utilized in the production of synthetic fibers like rayon and acetate.
Acetone helps dissolve and spin the polymer solutions into fibers.
Rubber industry:
Acetone is involved in the production and processing of rubber.
Acetone aids in the extraction of rubber from latex and acts as a solvent for various rubber-related processes.
Adhesives and sealants:
Acetone is a common component in the formulation of adhesives and sealants.
Acetone helps dissolve and disperse adhesive ingredients, enabling effective bonding and sealing.
Electronics industry:
Acetone is used in the electronics industry for cleaning and degreasing electronic components and printed circuit boards.
Acetone helps remove solder flux, oils, and other contaminants.
Automotive industry:
Acetone finds applications in the automotive industry for cleaning and degreasing auto parts, engines, and machinery.
Acetone helps remove dirt, grime, and oil residues.
Analytical chemistry:
Acetone is employed as a common solvent in analytical chemistry techniques such as chromatography and spectrophotometry.
Acetone aids in sample preparation and analysis.
Cosmetics and skincare:
Acetone is used in the formulation of cosmetics and skincare products, such as toners and astringents.
Acetone can help remove excess oil and clean the skin.
Printing and photography:
Acetone is used in the printing and photography industry for cleaning printing plates and removing inks.
Acetone helps dissolve and remove ink residues.
Agrochemicals:
Acetone is involved in the production of certain agrochemicals, including pesticides and herbicides.
Acetone serves as a solvent and a reactant in the synthesis of these compounds.
Surface coatings and laminates:
Acetone is used in the production of surface coatings and laminates, including automotive paints, furniture finishes, and protective coatings.
Metalworking industry:
Acetone finds applications in metalworking for cleaning and degreasing metal surfaces before coating or processing.
Acetone helps remove oils, greases, and residues that could affect the quality of the finished products.
Chemical Properties of Acetone:
Keto/enol tautomerism:
Like most ketones, acetone exhibits the keto–enol tautomerism in which the nominal keto structure (CH3) 2C=O of acetone itself is in equilibrium with the enol isomer (CH3)C(OH)=(CH2) (prop-1-en-2-ol).
In acetone vapor at ambient temperature, only 2.4×10−7% of the molecules are in the enol form.
Yet the enol form is chemically important in some chemical reactions.
Aldol condensation:
In the presence of suitable catalysts, two acetone molecules also combine to form the compound diacetone alcohol (CH3)C=O(CH2)C(OH)(CH3)2, which on dehydration gives mesityl oxide (CH3)C=O(CH)=C(CH3)
Acetone can further combine with another acetone molecule, with loss of another molecule of water, yielding phorone and other compounds.
Polymerisation:
One might expect acetone to also form polymers and (possibly cyclic) oligomers of two types.
In one type, units could be acetone molecules linked by ether bridges –O– derived by from the opening of the double bond, to give a polyketal-like (PKA) chain [–O–C(CH3)2–]n.
The other type could be obtained through repeated aldol condensation, with one molecule of water removed at each step, yielding a poly(methylacetylene) (PMA) chain [–CH=C(CH3)–]n.
PKA type:
The conversion of acetone to a polyketal (PKA) would be analogous to the formation of paraformaldehyde from formol, and of trithioacetone from thioacetone.
In 1960, Kargin, Kabanov and others observed that the thermodynamics of this process is unfavourable for liquid acetone, so that Acetone (unlike thioacetone and formol) is not expected to polymerise spontaneously, even with catalysts.
However, they observed that the thermodynamics became favourable for crystalline solid acetone at the melting point (−96 °C).
They claimed to have obtained such a polymer (a white elastic solid, soluble in acetone, stable for several hours at room temperature) by depositing vapor of acetone, with some magnesium as a catalyst, onto a very cold surface.
In 1962, Wasaburo Kawai reported the synthesis of a similar product, from liquid acetone cooled to −70 to −78 °C, using n-butyl lithium or triethylaluminium as catalysts.
He claimed that the infrared absorption spectrum showed the presence of –O– linkages but no C=O groups.
However, conflicting results were obtained later by other investigators.
PMA type:
The PMA type polymers of acetone would be equivalent to the product of polymerisation of propyne, except for a keto end group.
Handling and Storage of Acetone:
Handling:
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling acetone, including gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat or protective clothing.
Ensure good ventilation in the working area to minimize the buildup of vapors.
Use local exhaust ventilation if necessary.
Keep acetone away from open flames, sparks, or any potential sources of ignition, as Acetone is highly flammable.
Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. In case of contact, promptly remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while working with acetone.
Use suitable chemical-resistant containers and equipment for storage and handling.
Avoid breathing in vapors or mists.
If working with acetone in an enclosed area, use appropriate respiratory protection.
Do not use acetone near electrical equipment or in areas where static sparks may occur.
Storage:
Store acetone in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Keep acetone containers tightly closed when not in use to prevent evaporation and minimize the risk of fire.
Store acetone separately from oxidizing agents, acids, and alkalis to avoid potential chemical reactions.
Use appropriate secondary containment measures, such as spill trays or cabinets, to prevent leakage or spills.
Clearly label storage containers with the name of the substance and appropriate hazard warnings.
Store acetone away from incompatible materials, such as strong oxidizers, strong acids, and bases.
Ensure proper grounding and bonding during transfer operations to minimize the risk of static discharge.
Keep storage areas secure and restrict access to authorized personnel only.
Regularly inspect storage areas for leaks, spills, or signs of damage.
Clean up any spills promptly using appropriate absorbent materials and dispose of them safely.
First Aid Measures of Acetone:
Inhalation:
If inhaled, remove the affected person from the contaminated area to fresh air.
If the person is experiencing difficulty breathing, provide oxygen if available and seek immediate medical attention.
If the person is not breathing, perform artificial respiration and seek immediate medical attention.
Skin Contact:
Remove contaminated clothing and immediately wash the affected area with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
If irritation or redness persists, seek medical attention.
Do not use solvents or harsh chemicals to remove acetone from the skin.
Eye Contact:
Rinse the eyes thoroughly with gently flowing water for at least 15 minutes, while holding the eyelids open.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Seek immediate medical attention, even if the person feels no discomfort.
Ingestion:
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by medical professionals.
Rinse the mouth with water and drink plenty of water, if the person is conscious and able to swallow.
Seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.
General First Aid:
If any symptoms develop or persist, seek medical attention promptly.
Provide medical personnel with all relevant information, including the quantity and route of exposure.
Acetone is important to note that acetone is a flammable substance, so keep away from open flames or ignition sources.
Identifiers of Acetone:
IUPAC Name: Propan-2-one
Chemical Formula: C₃H₆O
CAS Number: 67-64-1
Molecular Weight: 58.08 g/mol
SMILES Notation: CC(=O)C
InChI Key: CSCPPACGZOOCGX-UHFFFAOYSA-N
UN Number: 1090 (for transport)
Properties of Acetone:
Chemical formula: C3H6O
Molecular weight: 58.08 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Sweet, fruity odor
Melting point: -94.9°C (-138.8°F)
Boiling point: 56.1°C (132.9°F)
Density: 0.79 g/cm³
Solubility: Highly soluble in water, miscible with many organic solvents
Vapor pressure: 227 mmHg at 20°C
Vapor density: 2.0 (air = 1)
Flash point: -17.8°C (0°F)
Autoignition temperature: 465°C (869°F)
Refractive index: 1.358
Heat of vaporization: 31.3 kJ/mol
Flammability: Highly flammable liquid
Explosive limits: 2.6% to 13.0% (volume percent in air)
pH: Neutral (approximately 7)
Miscibility: Miscible with water, ethanol, methanol, ether, chloroform, and many organic solvents
Volatility: High volatility, evaporates quickly
Stability: Stable under normal conditions, but can form explosive mixtures with air
Boiling Point: 56.05 °C (132.89 °F)
Melting Point: -94.7 °C (-138.5 °F)
Density: 0.7845 g/cm³ at 20 °C (68 °F)
Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohol, ether, and most other organic solvents.
Vapor Pressure: 24.46 kPa (at 20 °C)