Monographic: Acetone

Acetone is a ketone which appears as a colorless, flammable liquid, soluble in water and easily evaporated.

Its chemical formula is CH3 (CO) CH3 and is also known as dimethyl ketone, 2-propanone and beta-ketopropane.

The main physical parameters of acetone are:

• Boiling point: 56°C
• Melting point: -95°C
• Relative density (water = 1): 0.80
• Relative vapor density (air = 1): 2.0
• Relative density of the vapor / air mixture at 20ºc (air = 1): 1,2
• Autoignition temperature: 465ºC
• Explosive limits (% by volume in air): 2.2 to 13ºC

At the industrial level, acetone is used in the plastics, fibers and other chemicals industry. We can highlight the following applications:

• As a solvent for most plastics and synthetic fibers
• Ideal for thinning fiberglass resins
• In the cleaning of fiberglass tools and to dissolve epoxy resins
• In personal care products, highlighting its application as nail polish remover
• In the textile industry to clean wool and fur garments
• In the paint and varnish industry is used as volatile
• In surface treatment, it is useful in the preparation of metals before painting

At the industrial level, acetone is used in the plastics, fibers and other chemicals industry.

Acetone is a highly flammable product which, according to international transport regulations, is considered to be a Class 3 ADR product, Packing Group II. In handling and storage the following conditions must be taken into account to proceed properly:

• In order to ensure safe handling of acetone, it is important to protect the hands, respiratory tract and the rest of the body with chemical protective gloves, an auto-filter mask for gases and vapors, and protective and fire-resistant spectacles and protective clothing.
  
  
• To ensure safe storage, it is important to store the product in a tightly sealed container, controlling possible spills and debris. The product should be away from sources of heat, sparks, flames or hot surfaces.

Click here to see to see how BRUGUÉS distributes acetone, as well as to obtain more information about the product or to place an order.