The main use for isopropanol (IPA) is in solvents with outlets in cosmetics and personal care products, de-icers, paints and resins, pharmaceuticals, food, inks and adhesives. Some chemical compounds are manufactured from IPA, in particular derivative ketones such as methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK), isopropylamines and isopropyl esters.
The global market for isopropanol remains oversupplied, with flat demand growth in Europe and the US but stronger growth in Asia. Hence global demand is expected to grow at only 2-2.5%/year.
The older process for making isopropanol is based on the indirect hydration of refinery-grade propylene using sulphuric acid to form isopropyl sulphate which is then hydrolysed with steam to form sulphuric acid and IPA. A more modern route is the direct hydration of chemical grade (90-99%) propylene avoiding the need for sulphuric acid.
Isopropanol is a clear, colourless, mobile liquid with an alcoholic odour. IPA is a dangerous fire and moderate explosion hazard as its vapour mixes well with air and explosive mixtures are easily formed with risk of flashback.
Isopropanol
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Isopropanol
Uses and Outlook
The main use for isopropanol (IPA) is in solvents with outlets in cosmetics and personal care products, de-icers, paints and resins, pharmaceuticals, food, inks and adhesives. It is also used as solvent for oil and gums and in the manufacture of fishmeal concentrates. Low-grade IPA is used in motor oils. Little or no growth is expected in solvent applications due to stricter regulations on volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
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Isopropanol
Process Technologies
Two commercial routes to IPA are used. The older method is based on the indirect hydration of refinery-grade propylene using sulphuric acid to form isopropyl sulphate which is then hydrolysed with steam to form sulphuric acid and IPA. The crude IPA is distilled to the desired purity.
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