Products Description of Ethanol CAS# 71-23-8

1-Propanol is a compound in which a hydrogen atom in a propane molecule is replaced by a hydroxyl group. Because the hydroxyl group can replace hydrogen atoms on either terminal carbon or the central carbon, two isomers are formed: n-propyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol. Its chemical properties are similar to those of ethanol. It can be produced as a byproduct during methanol synthesis from carbon monoxide and hydrogen. At room temperature and standard pressure, 1-propanol appears as a colorless, transparent liquid with a characteristic odor. Industrially, it is produced via the reaction of ethylene, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen under high pressure using a cobalt catalyst, or alternatively through the hydration of propylene in the presence of sulfuric acid, or by catalytic hydrogenation of acetone. It is widely used as a solvent but can be irritating to the eyes and mucous membranes. Inhalation of propanol vapor may cause dizziness, headache, and nausea.

Product Usage

Propanols are primarily used as solvents in coatings, antifreeze formulations, and various household and personal care products. They also serve as chemical intermediates in the production of esters, amines, and other organic derivatives. Specifically, 1-propanol is widely employed as a solvent in printing inks, paints, cosmetics, pesticides, cellulose esters, and insecticides.

Additionally, 1-propanol is commercially used to produce glycol ethers, which are valued for their dual functionality, providing high solvency, chemical stability, and compatibility with water.