What is isopropyl alcohol?

Isopropyl alcohol is a liquid solvent that is characterised by its rapid evaporation, which means that it thoroughly cleans delicate items without leaving any residue or impurities. The formula of isopropyl alcohol is C3H80, so it is also known as isopropanol or propanol.

Characteristics 

• Colourless

• Flammable

• Intense odour

• Miscible in water

• Boiling point 82 % 

Uses

Isopropyl alcohol 99,9%: its high purity allows you to eliminate any type of virus and bacteria without leaving any trace. This allows you to clean and disinfect all types of electronic, magnetic and optical elements. However, thanks to its characteristics, it is ideal for cleaning IT components such as mobile phones, computers and televisions with isopropyl alcohol. This is due to its high volatility and fast evaporation; these devices are usually very delicate and require special care, so the use of other solvents could damage them. Moisten wipes with isopropyl alcohol and wipe the surface. This can also be done with a toothbrush or a fine bristle brush. It also works as a stain remover for all types of fabrics. If you have been wondering how to clean ink stains from clothes with isopropyl alcohol, just soak cotton wool in it and rub the stain gently. Another common use of isopropyl alcohol is to clean and disinfect floors and walls, especially when they are mouldy. However, extreme care must be taken as this product is not suitable for all surfaces. We therefore recommend its use on tiles and blackened joints. Avoid wood and dilute the product with water (in equal quantities) for cleaning marble and scrubbing tile floors.

Isopropyl alcohol vs. ethyl alcohol 

As detailed above, isopropyl alcohol is characterised by its rapid evaporation, leaving no trace of minerals or ions. While isopropyl alcohol is ideal for cleaning objects and electronics, ethyl alcohol is a liquid intended for skin disinfection and wound healing, i.e. an antiseptic and bactericidal product. Therefore, if you use ethyl alcohol to clean electronic devices, you can contaminate them with minerals and ions, which can cause them to adhere to unsuitable ligaments or produce electricity in the micro tracks of the cards, so special care must be taken when cleaning delicate devices, so it is recommended to use the right solvent, in this case ethyl alcohol, to avoid damaging them and causing undesirable results.

Precautions 

• It is a highly flammable liquid and should be kept away from high temperatures and fire. Do not inhale as it causes sore throat, cough and headache. 

• Thus, it is advisable to have good ventilation while using the product. 

• The use of isopropyl alcohol for disinfection of skin wounds is not recommended as it causes dying of the skin. 

• Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes, so the use of protective goggles ensures greater  safety.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Store in a cool, well.closed place.