The isopropyl alcohol, also called isopropanol, is used for different purposes, the most common being those related to cleaning and disinfection. But these are not the only uses of isopropyl alcohol, since it is a product with numerous applications also in the industrial field. Something that you must take into account when using this alcohol is that it is a flammable product, so it is essential to use it with care.
Next, from a HOWTO, we explain what is isopropyl alcohol and what is it for, in addition to indicating how to use it correctly so that you can use it safely and benefit from the uses of isopropyl alcohol widely.
What is isopropyl alcohol or isopropanol
Isopropyl alcohol not an ethyl alcohol like that of the pharmacy, but it is a chemical compound that also receives other names such as isopranol, propanol or API, among others. The main characteristics of this product is that it is colorless and has a strong odor, although its aroma may vary depending on the product that contains this type of alcohol.
Its texture is usually like that of any other alcohol, but when it is in very low and extremely cold temperatures it is noticeable that it is more dense and thick. If we talk about characteristics of isopropyl alcohol, it is worth emphasizing that it is a highly flammable chemical compound, so great care must be taken when it is used, how it is used and where it is stored or kept. It is best to keep the product containing this type of alcohol well away from heat sources.
What is isopropyl alcohol for – uses
Now that we know what this product is, we have to talk about what isopropyl alcohol or isopropanol is for. In general, this alcohol is used primarily as a disinfectant, although it may have other uses. We talk about the most common uses of isopropyl alcohol:
- Disinfectant: This type of alcohol is used as a disinfectant, especially for the hands. In fact, it is common for products such as wipes or some gels to contain a certain percentage of isopropyl alcohol, since this prevents microorganisms from proliferating and growing on the skin. That is why isopropyl alcohol is often used to prevent or kill pests. If you want to learn How to make homemade disinfectant, be sure to visit this other article.
- Cleaning: isopropyl alcohol or isopropanol is also used to clean certain objects such as electronic equipment – provided they are disconnected and cold – and all those surfaces where marks or fingerprints are common. In addition, it is useful for cleaning windows or mirrors, blinds and floors, although you can also learn How to make homemade cleaners with natural products.
- Pharmacy and medicine: Isopropyl alcohol or isopropanol is also used in this sector to preserve biological samples in a laboratory or for use in cosmetic products to prevent them from foaming. This is the case of tonics, purifying masks, etc.
- Automotive: this alcohol is also used in the automotive industry, as it is one of the additives that are added to fuel. In addition, it is useful to prevent the water in the vehicle from freezing when it is very cold, although it can also have de-icing effects. In the industries of this sector or in workshops it is usually used, in addition, to remove grease and oil of surfaces, machines or tools.
- Industry: Isopropyl alcohol is used, too, in other industries. For example, it is used as a solvent in paints or stains, as well as a solvent in resins and essential oils.
How to use rubbing alcohol correctly
Due to the characteristics of isopropyl alcohol – especially its strong odor and the fact that it is flammable – it is important to be very careful when using it. So how can we use isopropyl alcohol correctly so that there are no problems and we benefit from its properties? Only you must follow these tips when you want to use it at home:
- Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a damp cloth when cleaning a surface, electronic equipment, etc. If you are going to use it to clean a garment, apply a little directly to the fabric and let the alcohol act before putting the garment to wash.
- Wipe a dry cotton cloth or kitchen paper over the cleaned surface or object to polish it. This gesture can be done quickly, since the product evaporates very quickly and, in addition, it does not leave any trace or mark.
You already know how to use this product correctly, however, from a HOWTO we want you to take into account the following precautions:
- Wear gloves: it is important that you always wear gloves, as this product could irritate your skin (especially if it is not diluted with other substances). Remember that, when used in cosmetics, there is a small percentage of alcohol that is mixed with many other ingredients, so it is not harmful.
- Don’t inhale it: never inhale isopropyl alcohol, especially if it is not diluted with water or other products, as it could damage your respiratory tract.
- Save it properly– Store isopropyl alcohol away from heat sources to avoid hazards.
From unCOMO we hope to have helped you with these explanations about what is isopropyl alcohol and what is it for in order for you to know more information about this product and the different uses it can have.
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