Uses of Acetone

Introduction

Acetone stands for a compound that is organic in form and the chemical identity of this compound is $\mathrm{C_3H_6O}$. This application of this element is mainly seen as an additive for removing nail polish. It is dissolved in paint and it is mostly used for starting up of diesel engines.

What is Acetone?

Acetone refers to the smallest as well as simplest members of the family of ketone and it is also called as propanone. No specific colour is seen in this liquid, the characteristics of this compound are a little volatile, and it is highly flammable. A wide application of this compound can be seen in the manufacturing process of the different products.

Figure 1: Structure of acetone

Acetone can be getting by heating the anhydrous calcium acetate in a laboratory. It is naturally seen in the environment but it can be produced in the laboratory. Pure acetone includes its molecule and it can break into superglue and leaves when it is denatured with alcohol. The molecule of this compound contains atoms of oxygen, hydrogen and oxygen.

Properties of Acetone

Acetone is a member of the ketone group and it is the smallest of them.

Figure 2: Structural formula of the acetone molecule, $\mathrm{Me_2CO\:or\:C_3H_6O}$

• The chemical identity of this element is $\mathrm{C_3H_6O}$ the molar mass of this compound is 58.08 g/mol.

• The density of this element is very low like 0.784 g/cm³ and it easily dissolves in different liquid substances such as water.

• The point of freezing this compound is −94.7°C and it takes 56.05°C to boil.

• The flashing temperature of this element is −20°C and the IUPAC identity of this element is Propan-2-one.

• The dissolving power of this compound is very high and it is dissolved in every liquid such as different types of fats, resins as well as cellulose acetate. This element also dissolves in nitrocellulose along with cellulose ethers.

Daily Life uses of Acetone

Acetone is used widely for different purposes of the daily life schedule and some of them are mentioned below.

• Acetone is applied in the production process of several compounds like chloroform, sulphonal, artificial scents as well as different cordites.

• The compound is widely applied in the process of extraction of some important oils for daily use.

• It is widely applied in the making process of different household products, especially in some cosmetics and beauty products.

• It is sometimes used as a solvent for washing the glass apparatus.

• The application of this compound is seen as a cleaning particle that is useful in removing some harsh grease that range from different fabrics.

• Acetone is also used in polishing engines of the automobile sectors or other types of vehicles.

• This element is very useful in polishing shoes and it makes the shoes clean and shiny.

• It is helpful in deep cleaning the keyboard and other stubborn marks on the windows made of glass or metal.

• Acetone is used in the making process of some beauty products like sanitiser.

• Acetone is widely used in the medical field in recent times and it is used in the production of pills, different types of tablets along with liquid medicines for the maintenance of appropriate density.

• It is one of the most important components in rubber cement as it builds a strong bond that guides to set the crack quickly.

• It is widely applied in the making of glues, pastes as well as adhesives as it quickly dissolves the substance’s surfaces. It is sometimes used as a thinner for different products.

• Acetone is also made from sodium bicarbonate along with red phosphorus. These both compounds are very volatile in nature so in the preparation of some explosives it is used.

Industrial Uses of Acetone

Acetone is one of the most essential ingredients in different industries and it has some factorial applications as well.

• Acetone is applied like a solvent for various liquids like different types of celluloid, varnishes as well as lacquers.

• This compound is added to the natural compressed gas fuel in different mineral oils like petroleum for providing them with a better thickness.

• It is used as a remover of oil content from the surface of the water so that is the purpose of saving marine lives it is widely used.

• Acetone is applied for the safe transportation process, as it is highly flammable to the chemical fuel such as acetylene.

• It is used severally in the electronic industry for the clearance of some electronic gadgets.

Conclusion

The storage process of acetone is highly secured and it is mainly stored in an airtight jar because it has a higher flammable power. The storing places of these compounds must be far away from any burning agent like gas stoves or burning ovens. This element should be used by wearing chemical safety goggles. Gloves, boots as well as aprons should be used when acetone is used in the laboratory as it has a higher flammable power.

FAQs

Q1. What is the production process of acetone from acetyl chloride?

Ans. The production process of acetone from acetyl chloride with the application of dimethyl chloride gives acetones along with cadmium chloride. The reaction is presented as

$$\mathrm{2\:CH_3COCl + Cd(CH_3)_2\:\rightarrow\:2\:CH_3COCH_3 + CdCl_2}$$

Q2. What is the production process of acetone from isopropyl alcohol?

Ans. The production process of acetone from isopropyl alcohol starts by passing water vapours of isopropyl with the copper catalyst at the temperature of 573K. The chemical reaction is presented as

$$\mathrm{(CH_3)_2CHOH\:\rightarrow\:CH_3COCH_3 + H_2}$$

Q3. What are the safety tips for using acetone?

Ans. The using area need to be well ventilated and the atmosphere need to be dry as possible for using this compound. It is very important to keep a fire extinguisher during the application of acetone and windows must be opened as well. Smoking or burning any flammable substances is strictly prohibited during the application of this compound.