MOLECULE

Isopropyl alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol, also known as isopropanol, rubbing alcohol or IPA, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as secondary alcohols. Secondary alcohols are compounds containing a secondary alcohol functional group, with the general structure HOC(R)(R') (R, R'=alkyl, aryl). Isopropanol is the simplest example of a secondary alcohol, where the alcohol carbon is attached to two other carbons sometimes shown as (CH3)2CHOH. It is a structural isomer of 1-propanol. Isopropanol is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong odor. It is miscible in water, ethanol, ether, and chloroform. Isoproanol is produced industrially via the hydrogenation of acetone or the hydration of propene with water. It is widely used as a solvent for coatings, as a cleaning fluid (for eyeglasses and electrical contacts) and as a solvent for household or personal care products such as antiseptics, disinfectants, and detergents. Isopropanol has an alcoholic, musty or woody aroma and a similar woody or musty taste. Isopropanol is an approved food additive and is used in cosmetics as an antifoaming agent, a perfuming agent and a viscosity controlling agent. It is frequently used as an extraction solvent in food preparation. Isopropanol is also naturally present in apple, cognac, roselle fruit and papaya (Carica papaya) and contributes to their distinct odor. Isopropanol and its metabolite, acetone, act as central nervous system (CNS) depressants (PMID: 24815348). It is oxidized to form acetone by alcohol dehydrogenase in the liver (PMID: 12726989). Unlike methanol or ethylene glycol poisoning, the metabolites of isopropanol are considerably less toxic, and treatment is largely supportive. Isopropanol is found in trace amounts from extracted plant essential oil. As a result, it can be found in hemp, CBD or cannabis oils.