Cas No: 71-23-8
EINESC No: 200-746-9
Molecular weight: 60.096 g/mol
Chemical Formula: C3H8O
Chemical Structure:
Physical Properties
General Properties: Colorless, liquid
Odor: Light, spirituous
Intensity: 0,803 g/cm3
Boiling point: 98 °C
Melting point: -126 °C
Flash point: 22 °C
Vapor pressure: 1,99 kPa (20 °C)
Refraction index: 1.387 (20° C) Solubility (aqueous) Completely miscible
General Properties
N-propanol is a three-carboned, saturated, aliphatic alcohol. Its features are very similar to ethyl alcohol. It is a colorless, fluid and toxic liquid. It is used as solvent in many different industries such as medicine and dye. Chemically, it demonstrates characteristic reactions of primary alcohols and it is naturally formed in small amounts through fermentation.
Production
N-propanol is usually produced by hydrogenation of propionalehyde. Oxo method is used in its production.
Applications
N-propanol is an important organic substance that is used in industry. It is a very good solvent for resins and cellulose esters. In some cases, it is used in medicine and disinfectant production. It is also commonly used in acetone production.
It is also a very good fuel for preventing knocking in engines. It is suitable for use due to its high octane and it is rarely used as fuel as it has high cost.
Safety Measures and Toxic Values
N-propanol’s intoxicative behaviours are similar to ethyl alcohol but 2 or 4 times more efficient. On the other hand, it is 3 or 4 times less fatal than ethyl alcohol. It is extremely irritant to eyes. Its fumes can be dangerous if inhaled.
It is also an extremely flammable liquid. It must be kept away from all fire sources.