2-Propanol

Chemical Name

  • 2-propanol
  • Isopropanol
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Propan-2-ol

IUPAC / CAS

2-Propanol / 67-63-0

Physical and Chemical Properties

Isopropanol is a clear, colorless, volatile liquid with a pleasant odor. It is easily miscible in water and hygroscopic. It is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, strong bases, amines, ammonia, ethylene oxide etc. It may form peroxides under normal storage conditions and hence may explode if subjected to heat or shock.

Mode of Action

Like other aliphatic alcohols, 2-propanol mainly acts by coagulating proteins thereby denaturing them. This action is better observed when it is diluted in water and used in the concentration of 60% to 70%. The proteins that are denatured belong mainly to the cell wall, the cytoplasmic membrane and the various plasma proteins. The nucleoproteins of the organism are relatively unaffected. The above leads to loss of cellular functions and the increased permeability across the cell wall ultimately causing lysis of the organism.

Activity Spectrum

2-propanol is a broad-spectrum disinfectant with good activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi and mycobacteria. It inactivates bacterial spores and some studies have shown that 2-propanol can inactivate spores of Bacillus subtilis within 2 to 5 minutes in a concentration of 30% to 40%.

Advantages

  • The IARC has classified 2-propanol as class 3 agent i.e noncarcinogenic to humans
  • Like other alcohols, 2-propanol is a volatile broad spectrum disinfectant and hence is used in hand rubs

Disadvantages

  • Leads to dryness of the skin on long-term exposure
  • Highly inflammable

Toxicity and Side Effects in Humans

2-propanol  poisoning leads to early somnolence and deep coma with respiratory depression. Other features observed are dizziness, miosis, nystagmus, confusion, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, hematemesis, tachycardia hypertension and loss of deep reflexes. Cases of hepatic dysfunction, acute tubular necrosis and hemolytic anemia have also been reported..

Regulatory Information

  • Permissible limits according to OSHA and NOISH is 400ppm
    The European labeling for 2 ? propanol is in accordance with the EC directives. The hazard symbol is XI F.
  • Risk Phrases : R11: Highly inflammable, R36 : Irritating to the eyes, R67 : May cause dizziness and drowsiness if vapors are inhaled
  • Safety Phrases: S7: Keep the container tightly closed. S16 : Keep away from sources of ignition ? No smoking. S 24/25 : Avoid contact with the skin and the eyes.S26 : Incases of contact with the eyes rinse the eyes immediately with plenty of  water and seek medical advice.

Safety Measures

  • Contact with the eyes may cause irritation. Flush the eyes with isotonic saline and if that is not available allow the tearing action of the eyes to dilute the agent.
  • Skin contact may cause drying due to dissolution of the fats present in the skin, which is dissolved on prolonged exposure. Use of an emollient after the hand rub is helpful in such cases.
  • On ingestion the agent can be diluted with about 8 ounces of water. Isopropanol is more likely to have local side effects when it comes in contact with the eyes or the skin. It may cause chemical conjunctivitis and cause a burning sensation, which can be reduced by splashing cold water for about 15 minutes.
  • In case of poisoning due to 2-propanol, supportive therapy and hemodialysis are very important.