Application and preparation of acetone
Acetone is widely used not only in industry, but also in everyday life, and even in small amounts stands out by the human body. The reason for the great popularity and wide distribution of this substance is its availability and exceptional performance.
The technical acetone contains a rather large number of different inclusions, besides the main substance, which determines its wide specialization, as well as the ability to dissolve many organic substances: cellulose, wax, various salts. It is used as a solvent for natural and epoxy resins and is used for degreasing surfaces, and is also one of the main constituents for many other solvents.
This substance was first synthesized by heating acetic aldehyde in a sealed tube. Acetone obtained in this way contained mainly acetic acid and other impurities. To date, the technical acetone is produced in such basic ways:
- with thermal decomposition of calcium acetic acid;
- synthesis of gases during oil refining;
- method of fermentation of starch-containing products.
For the industrial production of acetone, the latter two methods are used.
Acetone Physics and Chemistry
Acetone, the application of which can be noted in almost all spheres of human activity, has characteristic physical properties. For example, it exerts a narcotic effect on the human body, although it is considered to be of little danger. This is especially evident in people who often work with acetone, using it as a solvent.
It should be noted that it has the property of accumulating in the body. The flammability of this substance is a major hazard when working with it.
Due to the fact that this substance has a high volatility, it has the property of rapidly evaporating into the atmosphere. Air mixtures with a large concentration of acetone are explosive. Acetone, whose chemical properties have found application in the paint and varnish industry, is resistant to the action of the vast majority of oxidants. This useful property allows using it for the production of aviation, cable, automotive and many other varnishes and enamels.
Safety in working with acetone
When using acetone, GOST 2603-79, requires care and attention, since it is an active solvent. It can be used to dilute the nitro-acids and nitro-enamels, as well as to give the thickened enamel the desired consistency. The paintwork will dry up after drying, thanks to acetone.
This substance is actively used for cleaning surfaces and tools from polyurethane foam or paint and varnish. Acetylene, used for welding metals, dissolves very well in it. At a pressure of 15 atmospheres, created by a steel cylinder in which acetylene is stored, one volume of acetone is capable of dissolving approximately 250 volumes of acetylene.
When using this chemical compound, remember the safety rules, use a respirator and rubber gloves, as prolonged inhalation of this solvent can lead to eye swelling, and cause dizziness and loss of orientation in space.