Uses of Acetone
Acetone is an organic compound made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. It is produced from propylene and over 6.5 million tonnes are produced each year. It is also produced as a byproduct of the normal metabolic processes in the human body. Let’s take a look at some of the most common applications of acetone.
Uses of acetone
- A common use of acetone is as a solvent, which is a substance that is capable of dissolving another substance. It is a popular solvent for many plastics and synthetic fibers. It is also used for thinning fiberglass resin, paint, vinyl, adhesives and varnishes. It can be used to dissolve epoxies and glue before and after it sets. It is also used to dissolve hazardous chemical spills, as a degreaser and as a cleaner. It is also used as a solvent/carrier in many pharmaceuticals.
- Acetone is also used to produce many other important chemicals. Some of these include methyl methacrylate (MMA), bisphenol-A (BPA) and methacrylic acid. The uses of MMA and BPA includes the production of many plastics, acrylic products, sealants, lacquers and epoxy’s.
- It also has a long history in the cosmetic industry. It is commonly used in nail polish remover and in chemical peels. It is also used by make-up artists to remove skin glue on wigs and fake mustaches.
- Acetone also has very important applications in the laboratory. It is used as a solvent in many chemical experiments and as an equipment cleaner. It is also used for safely storing acetylene, which is unsafe in its pure form.
- It is also used in rubber cement and some household cleaners.
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