An essential organic compound, Acetone is both interesting and simple. In addition to manufacturing, it is also utilized in scientific research. Its unique physical properties, specifically its melting and boiling points, mark it as an essential actor in chemical processes and other common activities. Knowing such characteristics helps in predicting how acetone will behave in different conditions to have practical uses. In this article, we will explain why acetone’s melting and boiling points matter, how they are interrelated, their significance, and how they can be used in real life. Chemists and students, and even those who are just curious about everyday substances, will gain a greater understanding of acetone’s versatility.
What is Acetone and its Chemical Properties?
Propanone or Acetone, with the chemical formula C₃H₆O (which consists of three carbon atoms, six hydrogen atoms, and an oxygen atom), is a colorless, volatile, and flammable liquid that is often utilized as a solvent. Acetone is known to be the smallest and simplest ketone, organic compounds with a carbonyl (C=O) attached to two carbons. Not only does acetone have a distinct odor, but it is hydrophilic (dissolving at any concentration one may add). Due to the high volatility and low boiling point of acetone, which is around 56°C or 132.8°F, it emerges as a dependable solvent in the pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and manufacturing industries. Its versatility, Cavendish indicated, “is chemically polar while solvents are nonpolar,”. Its capability to dissolve both nonpolar and polar substances, as well as its strong versatility, are major factors for acetone’s extensive applications.
Understanding the Organic Compound Nature of Acetone
Acetone is a simple organic compound known as a ketone, which is distinguished by its versatility and solvent capabilities. Its utensil properties make it highly useful in various fields, as it can dissolve many substances like oils, resins, and plastics. For example, in the pharmaceutical sector, acetone is routinely used for drug purification and active ingredient isolation due to its efficiency. It is also used in the cosmetic sector in nail polish removers and other cleansing agents because of its strong cleaning and swift evaporation properties. In addition, it is used for manufacturing plastics and synthetic polymers. Its widespread industrial use of acetone is due to its economical and environmental benefits as well as the chemical versatility of acetone.
Exploring the 67-64-1 CAS Number
The 67-64-1 CAS number belongs to acetone, a well-known organic solvent, which is placed under the ketone sub-group of chemicals. Its molecular formula, acetone, C₃H₆O, already indicates a relatively simple yet effective chemical structure consisting of three carbons, six hydrogens, and one oxygen. Acetone is also known for having a boiling point of 56 °C (132.8 °F), which is low when compared to that of other solvents, exceeding volatility and making it well-suited for uses demanding rapid evaporation.
From the standpoint of weight, acetone’s molecular weight rests at roughly 58.08 g/mol and her density is 0.791 g/cm³ at 20 °C.
In the case of safety, acetone is classified as flammable with a flash point of −20°C (−4°F) and an auto-ignition temperature of 465°C (869°F). From a chemical safety point of view, these parameters need strict control. This is especially critical for laboratory and industrial settings. In congruence with this, acetone is miscible with water and any other organic solvents, broadening its application in formulations for different fields.
The widespread use of this compound is heavily reliant on its degradation profile, which is environmentally acceptable. Acetone’s breakdown in the air and water is rapid, which reduces the long-term environmental impact of acetone. Legal bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have deemed acetone as a low toxicity substance in case it is used rightly, however, exposure limits such as the OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 1000 ppm for an 8-hour time weighted average must be in place to ensure protection against acetone’s exposure.
The 67-64-1 CAS number proves the industry versatility and pharmaceutical-grade availability of acetone, thus making it an essential ingredient in multiple fields.
Common Uses: Solvent and Beyond
Because of its solubility and swift evaporation rate, acetone is an industrial workhorse solvent. One major use includes the fabrication of plastics and synthetic fibers, where acetone is used to effectively dissolve and process the polymers. For example, it particularly aids in the production of polycarbonate and many epoxy resins because of its ability to break down complex materials.
Besides that, acetone represents an important ingredient of personal care products such as polish removers, cosmetics, and skincare products, since it helps in cleaning, thinning or removing residues due to its solvent properties. Recently, it has also been reported that acetone is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent for drugs because it considerably simplifies the production processes.
In addition to solvents, acetone is used in surface preparation as a degreaser for greases, adhesives, and oils in both residential and industrial settings. It is also becoming more commonplace as a reagent or cleaning agent in laboratories due to its efficacy and compatibility.
On a greener note, acetone is fully biodegradable, has low eco-toxicity and persistence in the environment, which makes it attractive for industries trying to shift to greener restrictions while still conforming to laws.
How is Acetone Produced?
The Role of Propylene in Production
The role of Propylene in the global manufacturing industry is quite instrumental as a primal constituent for feedstock in the cumene process for acetone production. The cumene process is a dominant method of global acetone manufacturing as it includes the alkylation of benzene with propylene to yield cumene or isopropylbenzene. Then, cumene hydroperoxide is formed during the oxidation of cumene and subsequently cleaved to yield acetone and phenol. It is worth noting that the phenol synthesis process accounts for the bulk of 83%-85% of the world’s acetone production, reinforcing the importance of propylene in the supply chain.
Commercial-scale production of the phenol-acetone process hinges on the usable propylene from the petroleum-refining industry and petrochemical steam cracking of hydrocarbons, which is the main source. Enhanced global acetone demand also further pushed the wider acceptance of solvents, plastics, and acetone marketed in pharmaceuticals. Additionally, catalyst innovations and marketing reengineered the processes of manufacturing and achieved better returns, which lowered the cost of production without compromising the cheaper industrial value of acetone.
Acetone bulk manufacturing has been forecasted to reach over 8 million metric ton pr year and leading producers have claimed propylene consumption during it’s production continues to rise, thanks to escalated acetone demand. The pronounced dependency emphasized the important relation of propylene production capability and acetone supply trends with used propylene.
Insights into the Cumene Process
There are many processes for producing acetone, however, the Cumene process is the most popular afterburner used in industry due to how elegantly it works in conjunction with other operations in petrochemical fabrication systems. To produce cumene, aromatics are alkylated with propylene over a catalyst. This is oxidized to cumene hydroperoxide and then cleaved oxidatively to produce phenol and acetone simultaneously alongside the first compound. This is still one of the economically proficient reactions in the chemical industry.
Recent research illustrates well how pronounced the scale of the Cumene process is in the economy. More than nine-tenths of the world’s phenol and acetone are produced from the cumene method, while a smaller portion is derived from other routes, like direct oxidation. Newer facilities, backed by the industry’s new catalytic strategies, have reached their targets of over 95% yield, resource consumption, and waste byproducts.
The expanding market of phenol along with compounds that utilize it explains the industry’s further support for constructing more cumene plants. For example, as of recent assessments, some large-scale facilities report an annual cumene production capacity exceeding several million metric tons, demonstrating their ability to meet industrial-scale requirements. Also, there are other impending technology changes directed toward fuel and emission cutting in the Cumene process to meet international targets of sustainable spending without sacrificing economic objectives. These factors strengthen the validity of the acetone manufacturing process.
Applications in Chemical Synthesis
Cumene is an important starting material in the production of phenol and acetone, which are important for synthesis in the chemical industry. Below are the primary processes associated with cumene:
Producing Phenol
Around 95% of the global supply of cumene is used for phenol production through the hydroperoxidation route. Phenol is then utilized for the production of a wide variety of resins and adhesives, including polycarbonate and epoxy resins.
The phenolic compound production globally is above 12 million metric tons and has rapidly increased in the Asia-Pacific region due to increased industrial uses.
Acetone Production
Acetone is a byproduct of phenol production, whose primary use is as a solvent in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and coating industries. It also serves as a building block in the production of methyl methacrylate and Bisphenol-A (BPA).
The Production of Bisphenol-A (BPA)
Phenol produced from cumene is fundamental to the production of BPA. BPA is the main ingredient used to produce polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins which are used in vehicles, electronic devices and packaging. Currently, it is estemated that more than 7 million metric tons of BPA is produced each year.
Caprolactam Production
A caprolactam, which is a precursor for Nylon-6, an essential polymer in textiles and engineering materials, is produced using derivatives of cumene.
Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK) Synthesis
An important intermediate solvent used in the industrial production of rubbers, paints, and protective coatings, MIBK is produced using acetone, which is a byproduct of the cumene process.
Acetone exemplifies the indispensable role of cumene in industrial production all over the world. The applications of cumene fuel innovative approaches to chemical synthesis, thereby, maintaining its status as one of the fundamental chemicals in the industry.
What are the Health Effects of Acetone?
Addressing Inhalation and Exposure Risks
Inhalation of acetone may lead to respiratory irritation, cough, throat discomfort, and even shortness of breath. More severe effects from increased levels of exposure could include dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Acetone exposure over extended periods or in high concentrations may lead to more serious consequences, including damage to the central nervous system. Consequently, proper ventilation and protective equipment such as respiratory masks should be used when working in high-exposure environments to handle acetone.
Understanding Eye Irritation Concerns
When acetone comes in direct contact with the eyes, irritation may occur. Symptoms may include redness, watering, and a burning sensation which is mild and temporary, although uncomfortable. Protective eyewear is recommended while working with acetone to avoid eye exposure. In case of exposure, rinse eyes thoroughly with flowing water for at least 15 minutes, and if irritation continues, seek medical attention.
Potential Impacts on the Central Nervous System
Acetone overexposure can elicit significant impacts on the central nervous system, especially during high or long-duration exposure. Symptoms can include lightheadedness, headache, and confusion, with severe cases resulting in lethargy or loss of consciousness. These effects of acetone are related to its capability of acting as a depressant, which may blunt neurological function. It is important to ensure that the area of work is well-ventilated and to avoid inhalation of acetone to mitigate these risks.
Why is Acetone Used in the Cosmetic Industry?
The Role of Acetone in Nail Polish Remover
In nail polish removers, acetone is preferred because it acts as a solvent. It breaks down the polymers in the nail polish, allowing it to dissolve and be wiped away. This property elevates acetone to a coupled agent of effectiveness in removing nail polish swiftly and efficiently. Moreover, the rapid evaporation of acetone ensures that the minimum amount of residue is left on the nails, which gives a clean surface for the reapplication of new nail polish.
Advantages of Acetone as a Colorless Liquid Solvent
Dissolves a Derivative
Due to its nearly unmatched dissolving power, acetone is capable of dissolving numerous organic and inorganic compounds. As a result, it is used in many fields like cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing.
Speedy Drying Rate
As a chemical with a acetone’s high evaporation rate, it ensures quick drying during commerce. This is specific to industrial coating, adhesive, and paint removal processes where rapid drying is necessary to cut production time.
Requires No Residue
Ideal for cleaning, preparation and electronics manufacturing surface cleaning such as chassis stripping, acetone is a preferred solvent because it leaves no residues of any kind.
Applicability Range
Acetone’s widespread usability stems from the fact that it can be used with many substances, including plastics, rubbers, and metals. Unlike other solvents, it is not solely reserved for the production of plastics such as polycarbonate and acrylic, enabling the production of stronger materials.
Safe Under Controlled Use Conditions
Safer than most heavy-duty solvents, acetone is regarded as having low acute toxicity under controlled conditions. It is also termed as a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) substance for low concentration allowance in the food industry.
Environmentally Sustainable Traits
Acetone is a solvent that occurs naturally and is easy to break down, along with having a low risk of bioaccumulation. Compared to some chlorinated or hydrocarbon solvents, acetone’s impact on the environment is lower, which makes it more sustainable.
Economic Value
Acetone is a solvent that is cost-effective and easy to produce due to its availability. Like other industrial solvents, acetone can be used in bulk without impacting performance. This increases the economic value for industries.
What Safety Measures are Important for Handling Acetone?
Understanding Flammability and Flash Points
If not managed appropriately, acetone can be active and dangerous when it comes into contact with fire due to its highly flammable property. The compound has a flash point of approximately -4° Fahrenheit (-20°C), which means it can provide enough vapor to ignite at moderately low temperatures. To ensure minimum risk when handling this substance, it is critical to store acetone in tight, fireproof, and flame-resistant containers that are away from open flames, sparks, and hot areas. Additionally, it is important to always add vapor of acetone outdoors to guarantee prevention of harmful conditions in an area that can trigger an explosion. Taking the right steps enhances the safety of those exposed and guarantees safe and proper use.
Proper Storage of this Highly Flammable Liquid
To safely store acetone, recommended industrial standards and guidelines must be observed. Acetone must be stored in proper stainless steel or HDPE containers and must be kept in non-corrosive chemical dengers. The storage area must be cool, dry, and well-ventilated CH55-safe and secure aer region. Controlled below 77°F (25°C). Above temperature may raise vapor pressure, which increases the risk of ignition.
In addition, the bolts must be placed into a container that is sealed off with fire extinguishing systems that use foam or Sprinkle to put out fire should high level tensions fire hazards arise. Compound acetone must be placed far from Acids, oxidizing agents, Poster Based materials; these reactions may prove hazardous instantly. Spring discharge combustion explosives put in place during transfer process.
Compound booms Attackers (suppress constituents) place lockable storage must spill safeareas coupled with emergency eyewords beside cancel signs mitigation reset exposure LEAKs risk. Together combine these using methods screws industrial lab necessitating swiftly safely handled.
Guidelines for Safe Evaporation and Disposal
The proper disposal of acetone is critical in evaporation to minimize acetone’s VOCs health dangers, environmental risks, and regulatory issues. Acetone has a boiling point of 56°C (132.8°F), meaning it is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that can rapidly evaporate at room temperature. Approximately 70 air changes per hour need to happen to manage this properly to prevent excessive corrosion of vapor space at a rate that can lead to fires or air quality issues.
Evaporation Safety Measures
- Aeration: It is best practice to conduct evaporation either outdoors or within a fume hood. A well ventilated area ensures acetone vapors are taken care of without further inhalation risks and reduces risks of explosive concentrations in the air.
- Fire Precautions: Stay away from open flames, heat sources, or any electrical sparks when using acetone. Its flashpoint of 20°C (-4°F) guarantees it is highly flammable.
- Monitoring: Closely monitor vapor concentration with a vapor monitor in confined locations, ensuring they do not surpass the 1,000 ppm PEL limit set by OSHA.
Disposal Guidelines
- Recovery: Used or unwanted acetone should be placed in designated labeled containers. Containers should be marked as flammable.
- Recycling: Aim to recover as much acetone as possible by using specialized recovery devices, as this minimizes waste creation and aligns with sustainable practices.
- Wastes are transported and processed by contacting hazardous waste removal companies. The disposal must align with Professional Disposal Services stipulations at the local, state, and federal levels set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other governing bodies regulating waste disposal guidelines.
- For Environmental Considerations, do not ever pour acetone down drains or introduce it into the soil. This action is harmful to water streams, water-dependent life, and marine ecosystems because of acetone’s high solubility.
These recommendations effectively minimize acetone-related risks to employees, equipment, and the environment and ensure proper handling, evaporation, and disposal of the chemical.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the melting and boiling points of acetone?
A: The properties of acetone include a melting point of -94.7°C and a boiling point of 56.05°C. This makes it a highly volatile organic solvent. In other words, acetone is also known as propanone and dimethyl ketone.
Q: How is acetone produced?
A: The production of acetone could be through natural causes or industrial means. One method is the cumene process where acetone undergoes its primary production through oxidation of cumene to cumene hydroperoxide then to acetone, phenol. Another method is the Weizmann Process and this uses bacteria to ferment carbohydrates. The process results in acetone, ethanol alongside other compounds.
Q: What safety and health considerations should be taken when handling acetone?
A: Acetone is highly flammable not only as a liquid but also as a vapor, so great precaution should be taken while handling it, For instance, keeping its temperature below 20°C will prevent it from catching flame. It is of great importance to make sure the area used is well-ventilated to minimize the chances of encountering heat sources or open flames. Avoiding direct contact with acetone for an extended period will also help minimize irritation to the eyes. Lastly, while dealing with acetone, it’s of great importance to have proper equipment for protection.
Q: Why is acetone used as a solvent in many industries?
A: Because acetone can dissolve a broad spectrum of chemical compounds, it can be used for resins and plastics as well as varnishes. Its miscibility makes it useful for the production of paints, coatings, and adhesives, as it can be mixed with water and other organic solvents like ethanol.
Q: What are the environmental impacts of acetone?
A: Though acetone is biodegradable and occurs naturally, it is its volatility that can unbalance the air in an environment if not managed correctly. Acetone vapors can bolster the formation of ground-level ozone. Nevertheless, if one acts responsibly, acetone’s environmental impact can be lessened.
Q: What are some common uses of acetone?
A: Acetone is utilized as a precursor in the synthesis of methyl methacrylate and bisphenol A, both integral to the production of plastics and epoxy resins. Moreover, it serves as an organic solvent in laboratories, as well as in the cosmetic industry for nail polish removers and other skin care products.
Q: How does acetone’s solubility affect its use in different applications?
A: Acetone dissolves in water and several organic solvents, which augments its effectiveness as a solvent in dissolving phenol, dimethyl compounds, and many organic substances. Its high level of solubility allows for cleaning and degreasing, as well as being used as a solvent carrier in various industrial and cosmetic products.
Q: How does acetone compare to other solvents in terms of volatility?
A: Acetone is a highly volatile organic compound as it has a boiling point of 56.05°C, meaning it evaporates rapidly. While this is useful in many applications, it is particularly advantageous in those that require an acetone or solvent-based product to dry quickly, such as in nail polish remover and industrial cleaning agents.
Q: Can biofuels be produced with the aid of acetone?
A: Certainly. Acetone can be produced in the acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation process, where it is obtained alongside other key products such as butanol and ethanol. This procedure employs specific strains of bacteria to metabolize sugars, and in the process, a blend of solvents is generated, which can be utilized as biofuels.
Reference Sources
1. The Effect of Pressure on the Melting Point of Acetone
- Authors: P. W. Richter, C. Pistorius
- Publication Date: June 1, 1973
- Citation Token: (Richter & Pistorius, 1973, pp. 82-85)
- Summary: Focus of the study is to understand the melting point of acetone with varying pressures. The authors monitored the melting profile of acetone using a differential thermal analysis unit placed in a piston-cylinder cell. The results support the hypothesis that acetone’s melting point is dependent on pressure which is essential for understanding its phase changes.
2. Acetone Recycling: Do Molecular Sieves Cause Acetone Breakdown to Acetaldehyde?
- Authors: Not provided
- Publication Date: October 14, 2023
- Citation Token: (“Acetone Recycling: Do Molecular Sieves Cause Acetone Breakdown to Acetaldehyde?,” 2023)
- Summary: The focus of this article is the recycling of acetone within the context of plastination and the potential change of acetone into acetaldehyde due to the molecular sieves. The research conducted NMR spectroscopy on the recycled acetone samples. The conclusion was that molecular sieves indeed do not alter the chemical composition of acetone in significant amounts, reaffirming their application in the cost-effective purification of acetone.
3. Ethylene Glycol–Acetone System: Low-Temperature Phase Equilibria
- By: I. A. Solonina and Others
- Published: 1st February 2023
- Reference: Solonina et al., 2023, pp. 328–333
- Research Focus: The complete study encompasses the phase equilibria of acetone in ethylene glycol based solutions. It specifically investigates the ethylene glycol-acetone system at sub-zero temperatures, while also undertaking some experimental work on the phase transition temperatures and the system’s phase equilibrium. These results are important in understanding the behavior of acetone in mixed solvents for different industrial processes.
