IPA, or isopropyl alcohol, is one of the most widely used solvents in industry. Its fast evaporation, its ability to dissolve many oils and residues, and its miscibility with water make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from cleaning to coatings. In this article we outline IPA’s identity and its main industrial uses. For an overview of our whole solvent group, see also our article Industrial Solvents.
What is IPA?
- Common name: IPA, isopropyl alcohol
- Other names: isopropanol, 2-propanol
- CAS number: 67-63-0
- Molecular formula: C3H8O
IPA is a colourless, volatile liquid with a characteristic odour. It is miscible with water and many organic solvents. It is a flammable liquid, so the precautions in the safety data sheet (SDS) must be followed in transport, storage and use.
Surface cleaning and degreasing
One of the most common uses of IPA is surface cleaning and degreasing. It is used to remove oil, fingerprints and light residues from metal, glass and many plastic surfaces. Its fast evaporation helps it dry without leaving residue on the surface. It is often chosen for surface preparation before painting, bonding or coating. The compatibility of the surface with IPA should be checked in advance.
Electronics and sensitive parts
In the electronics sector, IPA is among the solvents used to clean circuit boards and sensitive parts. It is considered for removing solder residues and flux remnants. In such applications, the quality properties of the product should be set according to the requirements of the application.
Inks and printing
In the printing sector, IPA is used as a thinner or additive in some ink systems and for cleaning printing equipment. It can serve different purposes in applications such as offset and flexographic printing.
Coatings and paints
IPA appears as a solvent or thinner in some coating and paint formulations. It is also used to clean coating equipment. Its role in a formulation is assessed together with the other solvents.
Chemical intermediate and formulations
IPA can be used as a component in various industrial formulations and as an intermediate in some chemical processes. Cleaning products, glass cleaners and industrial maintenance products are among these formulations.
IPA and other solvents
IPA is often compared with other solvents such as acetone and ethyl acetate. Each solvent differs in evaporation rate, solvency and compatible materials, so choosing the right solvent for the application matters. We explained the difference between acetone and ethyl acetate in our article The Difference Between Ethyl Acetate and Acetone.
Storage and safety
IPA is a flammable liquid. It should be stored in closed containers, in a well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources. Suitable personal protective equipment should be worn during use and the instructions in the SDS followed. For general information, see our article Storage and Transport of Industrial Solvents.
For a quote
Sharing your application, quality expectations, packaging preference and approximate quantity in your IPA request helps the quote be prepared correctly. Packaging, quantity and quality are clarified in the quote.
Requesting by application
Stating the application when requesting IPA makes it easier to choose the right product and packaging. Different applications such as cleaning, surface preparation, inks and coatings can have different needs. Information such as estimated consumption, preferred packaging type and delivery address also helps clarify the quote. Technical documents you request are shared during the quote process.
Where IPA is used, good ventilation, storage away from ignition sources and suitable personal protective equipment should be applied together with the precautions in the safety data sheet.
Frequently asked questions
Are IPA and isopropanol the same thing?
Yes. IPA, isopropyl alcohol, isopropanol and 2-propanol all refer to the same product.
What is the CAS number of IPA?
The CAS number of IPA is 67-63-0.
Conclusion
IPA is a common solvent used in many industrial applications such as surface cleaning, degreasing, inks, coatings and electronics. For details, see our IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) and Solvents pages, and send your needs via the quote form.