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My isopropyl alcohol is expired. What happens when it expires? Does it break down into something else? Can I still use it to clean or sanitize?
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Answer

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Step 1
: Understand the nature of isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is a common disinfectant and solvent. It is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong odor. The most common isopropyl alcohol available for consumer use is a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water, usually with a concentration of 70% isopropyl alcohol.

Step 2
: Understand the effects of expiration on IPA

Like many chemicals, isopropyl alcohol can degrade over time due to exposure to air, light, and temperature fluctuations. When IPA degrades, it can form new compounds, including acetone and other aldehydes or ketones. These byproducts may have different properties and effectiveness compared to the original IPA.

Final Answer

When isopropyl alcohol expires, it can break down into other compounds, such as acetone and aldehydes or ketones. While expired IPA may still be effective for cleaning and sanitizing, its disinfecting properties may be reduced. Additionally, using expired IPA can pose safety risks due to the formation of potentially harmful byproducts. Therefore, it is recommended to use fresh isopropyl alcohol for cleaning and sanitizing purposes.

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