Laboratory Chemicals

Uses:

• The largest single use of ethanol is as an engine fuel and fuel additive. Brazil in particular relies heavily upon the use of ethanol as an engine fuel, due in part to its role as one of the globe''s leading producers of ethanol.
• Ethanol is considered a universal solvent as its molecular structure allows for the dissolving of both polar, hydrophilic and nonpolar, hydrophobic compounds. As ethanol also has a low boiling point, it is easy to remove from a solution that has been used to dissolve other compounds making it a popular extracting agent for botanical oils. 
• Ethanol is a common ingredient in many cosmetics and beauty products. 
• It acts as an astringent to help clean skin
• It is used as a preservative in lotions and to help ensure that lotion ingredients do not separate 
• It helps hairspray adhere to hair

First Aid Measures:

• Irritating to skin.
• Remove affected person from source of contamination. Wash contaminated skin promptly with soap or mild detergent and water. 
• Remove clothing promptly if soaked through
• If breathing is weak or irregular then apply artificial respiration
• Keep affected person warm & at rest
• Get immediate medical attention

Uses 

• Used in cosmetics industry
• Used in solvent industry
• Used in solvent industry
• lacquer formulations, dye solutions, antifreezes, soaps, window cleaners
• Used for making sanitizers
• Major component in Industrial & household cleaners

Isopropyl alcohol (IUPAC name propan-2-ol; also called isopropyl, isopropanol, or 2-propanol) is a colorless, flammable chemical compound (chemical formula CH3CHOHCH3) with a strong odor. As an isopropyl group linked to a hydroxyl group, it is the simplest example of a secondary alcohol, where the alcohol carbon atom is attached to two other carbon atoms. It is a structural isomer of 1-propanol and ethyl methyl ether. Isopropyl Alcohol is an isomer of propyl alcohol with antibacterial properties.

Isopropyl alcohol, particularly in solutions between 60% and 90% alcohol with 10 – 40% purified water, is rapidly antimicrobial against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Once alcohol concentrations drop below 50%, usefulness for disinfection drops sharply. Notably, higher concentrations of alcohol don’t generate more desirable bactericidal, virucidal, or fungicidal properties. Alcohol-based versions typically contain some combination of isopropyl alcohol, ethanol (ethyl alcohol), or n-propanol, with versions containing 60% to 95% alcohol the most effective.Care should be taken as they are flammable. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer works against a wide variety of microorganisms but not spores. Compounds such as glycerol may be added to prevent drying of the skin. Some versions contain fragrances; however, these are discouraged due to the risk of allergic reactions. Non-alcohol based versions typically contain benzalkonium chloride or triclosan; but are less effective than alcohol-based ones.

Isopropyl alcohol is effective against viruses such as FCV at 40% – 60% concentrations. Ethanol however, is more effective at 70% – 90% concentrations against FCV.In other cases, isopropyl alcohol is more effective than ethanol at lower percentage concentrations.

Methods of Manufacturing:

Indirect hydration process is based on a two-step reaction of propylene and sulfuric acid; in the first step, mixed sulfate esters, primarily isopropyl hydrogen sulfate, but also diisopropyl sulfate, form; these are then hydrolyzed, forming isopropanol and sulfuric acid.

Health Hazards:

Vapors cause mild irritation of eyes and upper respiratory tract; high concentrations may be anesthetic. Liquid irritates eyes and may cause injury; harmless to skin; if ingested causes drunkenness and vomiting.

Fire Hazards:

Highly flammable. Vapour/air mixtures are explosive. 

First Aid:

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician.