Acetone

Acetone (CH3COCH3), also known as propanone or dimethyl ketone, is a colorless, volatile, flammable liquid that is widely used as an organic solvent, cleaning agent, and in various industrial and chemical processes.

Structure of acetone

Properties

• Acetone is a simple ketone with a molecular formula of C3H6O. It has a characteristic sweet odor and is miscible with water, ethanol, and other polar solvents. It has a boiling point of 56.05°C (132.89°F) and a melting point of -94.7°C (-138.5°F).

Production

• Acetone is primarily produced through the cumene process, which involves the oxidation of cumene (isopropylbenzene) to cumene hydroperoxide, followed by the decomposition of cumene hydroperoxide to acetone and phenol. Other methods of acetone production include the dehydrogenation of isopropanol and the fermentation of renewable feedstocks, such as corn or sugarcane.

Uses

• Acetone has a wide range of applications, including:
• Solvent: Acetone is a common solvent for various organic compounds, including resins, plastics, and adhesives. It is also used in the production of paints, varnishes, and lacquers.
• Cleaning agent: Acetone is an effective cleaning agent for removing paint, grease, and other contaminants from surfaces. It is often used in the electronics industry to clean circuit boards and other components.
• Nail polish remover: Acetone is a common ingredient in nail polish removers due to its ability to dissolve and remove nail polish quickly and effectively.
• Laboratory use: Acetone is used in laboratories for the extraction, precipitation, and crystallization of various compounds.
• Chemical synthesis: Acetone serves as a building block for the synthesis of other chemicals, such as methyl methacrylate and bisphenol A.

Health Effects and Safety

• Acetone is considered to have low toxicity, but exposure to high concentrations can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Prolonged skin contact may result in dryness and dermatitis.
• Acetone is highly flammable and should be stored and used away from open flames, sparks, and other sources of ignition. In the event of a fire, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or foam extinguishers should be used.

Disposal and Environmental Impact

• Acetone is considered to have low environmental toxicity and is readily biodegradable. However, it is volatile and can contribute to air pollution when released into the atmosphere. Proper disposal of acetone involves allowing it to evaporate in a well-ventilated area or disposing of it as hazardous waste according to local regulations.

See also

• Ethanol
• Methanol
• Isopropanol
• Solvent

External Links

• Acetone - PubChem
• Acetone - OSHA Chemical Data

Further Reading

• Acetone: Properties, Uses, and Production - ScienceDirect
• Acetone: ToxFAQs - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)

Summary

Acetone (A-seh-tone) is a chemical substance found naturally in small amounts in plants, trees, volcanoes, and forest fires. Acetone is also made by the body when fats are broken down. It is also found in tobacco smoke, car exhaust, and trash landfills. In industry, acetone is used in some plastics, fibers, medicines, household cleaners, glues, and nail polish removers. Being exposed to high levels of acetone may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness, and other health problems.

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