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How isopropanol transformed into a powerful disinfectant? Let you understand its medical miracle!
Isopropanol, also known as propylene glycol and 2-propanol, is a colorless, flammable and pungent organic compound with a pungent alcoholic odor.Its chemical formula is (CH3)2CHOH, which is a polar molecule and is completely miscible with water, ethanol and chloroform, which allows it to dissolve a variety of substances, including oils, natural resins, etc.However, isopropanol is not mixed with the salt solution, a property that makes it play an important role in the separation of purity.
Isopropanol is not only a star product in the medical world, it is also widely used in various industrial and household applications, and produces more than one million tons per year.
Properties and applications of isopropanol
The physicochemical properties of isopropanol make it ideal for a variety of applications.The azeotrope formed with water has a boiling point of 80.37°C, which is particularly useful in the formulation process.This property, coupled with its low toxicity, makes isopropanol very popular in the manufacture of drugs and other chemicals.
Isopropanol is a common disinfectant and its effective concentration is usually between 60-70%.
Evolution of Medical Uses
As time goes by, the application of isopropanol in medical care has gradually expanded.Originally used as a cleanser in surgery, it is now more widely used to make sterilized cotton balls and hand disinfectants.During the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for isopropanol has increased significantly, especially in the process of making hand disinfectants and detergents.
Safety and Toxicology
Although isopropanol has excellent disinfection properties, its safety also needs attention.Its vapor is heavier than air and is flammable, so it should be kept at a distance from the heat source.Excessive intake can lead to poisoning, and symptoms include dizziness, nausea and central nervous system depression.Therefore, the guidelines must be strictly followed when using isopropanol.
Symptoms of isopropanol poisoning include headache, dizziness and respiratory depression, which need to be treated in a timely manner.
The production process and future prospects of isopropanol
The production of isopropanol is mainly divided into two paths: indirect hydration and direct hydration.Indirect hydration method is used to form sulfate ester by mixing propylene with sulfuric acid, and then hydrolyzing is obtained isopropanol; while direct hydration method is to directly react propylene with water under high pressure.These technologies continue to advance, making the production costs of isopropanol flat and increasing.
Conclusion
From synthesis centuries ago to its widespread use today, the role of isopropanol in the medical and industrial world cannot be ignored.With the advancement of technology and changes in market demand, the use of isopropanol may continue to expand in the future.We can’t help but want to ask, with the advancement of medical technology, how will the role of isopropanol change?
