70% Isoproyl Alcohol

 
 

Isopropyl Alcohol structure

Rubbing alcohol, or 2-propanol, is an organic compound that freezes at -89.5°C and boils at 82.3°C.  The DH(fusion) equals  5.37kJ/mol. Specific heat of liquid 2-propanol equals 2.60 J/g times K. The 
 DH(vap) equals 39.85 kJ/mol.

The combination of sulfuric acid addition to propene, followed by hydrolysis of the resulting isopropyl hydrogen sulfate, is the major method by which over 10 to the 9th lb of isopropyl alcohol is prepared each year in the United States.

With a boiling point of 82°C, isopropyl alcohol evaporates quickly from the skin, producing a cooling effect. Often containing dissolved oils and fragrances, it is the major component of rubbing alcohol. Isopropyl  alcohol possesses weak antibacterial properties and is used to maintain instruments in a sterile condition and to clean the skin before minor surgery. Isopropyl alcohol is among the readily available materials commonly found in laboratories where organic synthesis is carried out.

References: Organic Chemistry 4th ed., Francis A. Carey, pg. 19, 225, 581