What Is Acetone Used For?

Acetone is a fast-evaporating, colorless solvent used for cleaning, manufacturing, chemical processing, laboratories, coatings, plastics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, electronics, and many other applications. It is one of the most widely recognized organic solvents and is also known as 2-propanone, propanone, or dimethyl ketone. Its chemical formula is C₃H₆O, and its CAS number is 67-64-1.

Acetone is useful because it can dissolve many substances and mixes readily with water. It also evaporates quickly, which makes it valuable for cleaning and processing applications where a solvent needs to disappear after use. However, acetone is highly flammable, so professional users must handle, store, and transport it according to the applicable safety requirements.

What Is Acetone?

Acetone is a simple organic compound belonging to the ketone family.

Its chemical information includes:

The NIOSH Pocket Guide identifies acetone as a colorless liquid with a molecular weight of approximately 58.1 and a boiling point of 133°F (about 56°C).

Acetone can occur naturally in small amounts, but most commercial acetone is manufactured for industrial and commercial use.

What Is Acetone Used For?

Acetone is used for many purposes because it is an effective solvent, evaporates quickly, and can dissolve a wide range of materials.

Major uses include:

• Industrial cleaning
• Paint and coating production
• Adhesives
• Chemical manufacturing
• Plastics and polymer processing
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Cosmetics
• Laboratory research
• Electronics cleaning
• Printing inks
• Resin processing
• Fiber manufacturing
• Extraction and processing applications

The U.S. EPA and PubChem identify acetone as a solvent and chemical intermediate used across numerous industrial applications.

1. Acetone Is Used as an Industrial Solvent

One of the most important uses of acetone is as a solvent.

A solvent is a substance that can dissolve another material. Acetone is particularly useful because it can dissolve many:

• Resins
• Oils
• Fats
• Waxes
• Adhesives
• Paint components
• Plastics
• Rubber materials
• Coatings

This makes acetone useful in manufacturing and professional cleaning processes.

The EPA identifies acetone among chemicals used as solvents in industrial applications.

2. Acetone Is Used for Cleaning

Acetone is widely used as a cleaning solvent.

Because it dissolves many organic materials and evaporates rapidly, it can be useful for removing residues from compatible surfaces and equipment.

Industrial applications can include cleaning:

• Manufacturing equipment
• Metal components
• Tools
• Glassware
• Electronic components
• Production surfaces
• Laboratory equipment

The exact suitability depends on the material being cleaned because acetone can damage or dissolve some plastics, coatings, paints, and other materials.

3. Acetone Is Used in Paints and Coatings

Acetone is used in certain paint, varnish, lacquer, coating, and adhesive formulations.

It can act as a solvent that helps dissolve or distribute other ingredients in a formulation.

After application, its relatively fast evaporation can help the formulation dry.

The EPA identifies acetone as a solvent used in paint, ink, resin, varnish, and coating applications.

4. Acetone Is Used in Adhesives

Acetone can be used in the production and processing of certain adhesives.

Its solvent properties allow it to dissolve or carry particular adhesive components.

It may also be used during manufacturing processes where removal of residues or preparation of compatible surfaces is required.

The correct solvent depends on the adhesive chemistry and the surface involved.

5. Acetone Is Used in Chemical Manufacturing

Acetone is more than just a cleaning solvent.

It is also an important chemical feedstock and intermediate.

Industrial processes use acetone in the production of other chemicals, including materials associated with:

• Methyl methacrylate
• Bisphenol A
• Methyl isobutyl ketone
• Other chemical intermediates

The EPA identifies acetone as an important industrial chemical used to manufacture methacrylates, bisphenol A, methyl isobutyl ketone, and other products.

6. Acetone Is Used in Plastics and Polymer Production

Acetone has applications in plastics and polymer-related manufacturing.

Its solvent properties make it useful for processing selected polymer materials and formulations.

Depending on the process, acetone may be used as:

• A solvent
• A processing aid
• A cleaning agent
• A formulation component
• A chemical intermediate

The specific application depends on the polymer and manufacturing process.

7. Acetone Is Used in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Acetone is also used in pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing.

It can function as a solvent or processing medium during the manufacture of certain pharmaceutical substances and intermediates.

Pharmaceutical manufacturing requires carefully controlled specifications, so the grade of acetone selected should match the requirements of the process.

8. Acetone Is Used in Cosmetics

Many people know acetone because of its use in nail polish remover.

Acetone can dissolve components of nail polish, allowing the coating to be removed from the nail surface.

It is also used in certain cosmetic and personal-care manufacturing processes.

However, industrial acetone and cosmetic products containing acetone are not necessarily interchangeable. The appropriate product and grade should always be selected for its intended application.

9. Acetone Is Used in Electronics

Acetone has been used in electronics-related cleaning and manufacturing processes.

Industrial references describe its use for cleaning and drying certain electronic components and precision equipment.

Because modern electronics can contain plastics, coatings, adhesives, and sensitive components, compatibility should always be checked before using acetone on electronic equipment.

10. Acetone Is Used in Printing and Inks

Acetone can be used as a solvent in certain printing ink formulations.

It can help dissolve or carry components used in printing products and may be involved in manufacturing and processing applications.

Industrial applications include printing and publishing, inks, and related chemical processes.

11. Acetone Is Used in Fiber Manufacturing

Acetone has been used as a process solvent in the production of certain fibers.

Historical EPA documentation describes its use as a spinning solvent in the manufacture of cellulose acetate fiber.

This illustrates the broader role acetone can play in polymer and synthetic-material manufacturing.

12. Acetone Is Used in Laboratory Research

Acetone is a common laboratory solvent.

Researchers and laboratory professionals may use it for:

• Cleaning laboratory equipment
• Preparing certain solutions
• Solvent-based chemical processes
• Removing organic residues
• Chemical research
• Sample preparation

Its volatility and strong solvent properties make it useful in many laboratory environments.

Laboratory users should select the appropriate grade and follow the current SDS for the product being used.

Why Is Acetone Such a Good Solvent?

Acetone has several properties that make it useful as a solvent.

It Dissolves Many Materials

Acetone can dissolve many organic substances, including certain resins, oils, coatings, adhesives, and polymers.

It Mixes With Water

Acetone is miscible with water, meaning the two liquids can mix in all proportions.

It Evaporates Quickly

Acetone is highly volatile and has a relatively low boiling point.

This allows it to evaporate rapidly after application.

It Is Widely Available

Acetone is produced and used on a large industrial scale, making it an established commercial solvent.

What Is Acetone Made Of?

Acetone is a relatively simple organic molecule.

Its molecular formula is:

C₃H₆O

Its structure can also be written as:

CH₃COCH₃

The chemical name is 2-propanone or propanone.

Its CAS number is:

67-64-1

These identifiers are useful when purchasing acetone because they help confirm the exact chemical being requested.

Is Acetone the Same as Propanone?

Yes.

Acetone and propanone refer to the same chemical substance.

Other names include:

• 2-Propanone
• Propanone
• Dimethyl ketone
• Acetone

When buying or specifying the chemical, the CAS number 67-64-1 can provide an additional way to confirm its identity.

Is Acetone Flammable?

Yes. Acetone is highly flammable.

NIOSH classifies acetone as a Class IB flammable liquid and lists a flash point of approximately 0°F (-18°C).

This means acetone must be kept away from ignition sources and handled using appropriate fire-safety measures.

Important considerations include:

• Keep away from flames and sparks
• Use appropriate ventilation
• Avoid unnecessary vapor exposure
• Use suitable containers
• Store according to the SDS
• Follow applicable fire and chemical-storage requirements

Is Acetone Dangerous?

Acetone needs to be handled carefully, particularly in concentrated industrial quantities.

Exposure can occur through:

• Inhalation
• Skin contact
• Eye contact
• Accidental ingestion

NIOSH lists occupational exposure limits for acetone and identifies potential effects associated with excessive exposure.

The risk depends on factors such as concentration, exposure time, ventilation, and the way the chemical is handled.

For professional use, always consult the current SDS for the exact product.

Can Acetone Be Used to Clean Everything?

No.

Although acetone is a powerful solvent, it can damage certain materials.

For example, it may dissolve or damage some:

• Plastics
• Paints
• Coatings
• Synthetic materials
• Adhesives
• Finishes

Before using acetone on a surface, check the material manufacturer’s compatibility information.

This is especially important when working with expensive equipment, electronics, plastics, painted surfaces, or finished products.

What Industries Use Acetone?

Acetone is used across many industries.

Chemical Manufacturing

Used as a solvent and chemical intermediate.

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Used in certain manufacturing and processing applications.

Paint and Coatings

Used as a solvent in selected coatings, paints, lacquers, and varnishes.

Plastics and Polymers

Used in polymer processing and chemical production.

Electronics

Used in selected cleaning and manufacturing applications.

Textiles

Used in certain synthetic fiber manufacturing processes.

Cosmetics

Used in products such as nail polish remover and other cosmetic formulations.

Laboratories

Used as a general-purpose organic solvent and cleaning solvent.

Where to Buy Acetone

If you are searching for where to buy acetone, the right supplier depends on the quantity, grade, application, and location.

For professional or industrial requirements, acetone can be sourced from chemical suppliers, laboratory chemical distributors, industrial solvent suppliers, and authorized commercial distributors.

When choosing a supplier, check:

• Chemical identity
• CAS number
• Grade
• Purity
• Packaging
• SDS availability
• Certificate of Analysis where required
• Shipping requirements
• Storage requirements
• Destination-specific regulations

The CAS number for acetone is 67-64-1, which can be used when requesting a quotation or confirming a product specification.

For professional purchasing, avoid selecting a chemical based solely on the lowest price. The correct specification and documentation are important.

Where to Buy Acetone Online

Professional buyers can search for acetone through established chemical suppliers and laboratory distributors.

Before ordering online, verify that the supplier provides appropriate product information and can legally ship the requested quantity to your destination.

Because acetone is a flammable chemical, transportation requirements can differ from ordinary consumer products.

For larger commercial quantities, requesting a quotation can also help confirm:

• Available quantities
• Grade
• Packaging
• Product documentation
• Delivery options
• Shipping requirements
• Commercial terms

Can You Buy Acetone at a Chemical Supplier?

Yes. Chemical suppliers commonly provide acetone for professional and industrial applications.

Depending on the supplier, products may be offered in different grades and package sizes.

For laboratory work, industrial manufacturing, cleaning, coatings, or chemical processing, the required grade may be different.

Always match the product specification to the intended use.

Acetone Grades

Not every acetone product is identical.

Depending on the application, buyers may encounter different grades such as:

Industrial Grade

Designed for suitable industrial manufacturing and processing applications.

Laboratory Grade

Designed for laboratory applications where controlled specifications are required.

Reagent or High-Purity Grade

Used when tighter specifications and lower impurity levels are required.

Technical Grade

Used in applications where the required technical specification differs from analytical or reagent-grade material.

The correct grade depends on the application.

What Should You Check Before Buying Acetone?

Before purchasing acetone, consider the following:

1. Chemical Identity

Confirm that the product is acetone, CAS 67-64-1.

2. Grade

Make sure the grade matches the intended application.

3. Purity

Check the stated purity and relevant specification.

4. Documentation

For professional applications, request the SDS and, where appropriate, a COA.

5. Quantity

Choose a package size appropriate for your actual requirement.

6. Shipping

Confirm that the supplier can legally transport the product to your destination.

7. Storage

Review the manufacturer’s storage requirements before accepting delivery.

Acetone for Industrial Applications

Industrial users may require acetone for several different purposes.

It can be used as:

• A process solvent
• A cleaning solvent
• A chemical intermediate
• A formulation solvent
• A polymer-processing solvent
• A coatings solvent
• A laboratory solvent

The EPA’s chemical-use information includes acetone in categories such as solvents, cleaning agents, processing aids, intermediates, and other industrial applications.

Acetone and Environmental Considerations

Acetone is volatile, meaning it readily enters the air.

Because of this, industrial users need to consider vapor management, workplace exposure, storage, spills, waste handling, and applicable environmental regulations.

Acetone also occurs naturally in the environment, including through biological processes and natural sources. However, industrial activity contributes significant quantities to the environment.

Professional users should follow applicable environmental and waste-management requirements rather than disposing of acetone through ordinary drains or general waste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is acetone used for?

Acetone is mainly used as a solvent and chemical intermediate. Applications include cleaning, coatings, adhesives, plastics, polymers, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, electronics, textiles, laboratories, and chemical manufacturing.

Where can I buy acetone?

Acetone can be purchased through chemical suppliers, laboratory distributors, industrial solvent suppliers, and authorized commercial distributors. Professional buyers should confirm the grade, purity, documentation, quantity, and shipping requirements before purchasing.

Where can I buy acetone online?

Professional buyers can source acetone online from established chemical suppliers and laboratory distributors. Because acetone is a flammable chemical, confirm that the supplier can legally ship the required quantity to your location.

What is the CAS number for acetone?

The CAS number for acetone is 67-64-1.

What is the chemical formula of acetone?

The chemical formula of acetone is C₃H₆O, which can also be written as CH₃COCH₃.

Is acetone a solvent?

Yes. Acetone is a widely used organic solvent and is used to dissolve or process many different materials.

Is acetone flammable?

Yes. Acetone is a highly flammable liquid. NIOSH lists it as a Class IB flammable liquid.

Is acetone used in laboratories?

Yes. Acetone is commonly used as a laboratory solvent and for cleaning compatible laboratory equipment and materials.

Is acetone used in manufacturing?

Yes. Acetone is used throughout chemical manufacturing and in industries including coatings, plastics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, electronics, and cosmetics.

Can acetone dissolve plastic?

Acetone can dissolve or damage some plastics, but not all plastics behave the same way. Always check material compatibility before applying acetone to a plastic surface.

Is acetone the same as propanone?

Yes. Acetone is also called propanone or 2-propanone.

Does acetone evaporate quickly?

Yes. Acetone is highly volatile and evaporates readily at room temperature.

Why is acetone used for cleaning?

Acetone can dissolve many organic substances and evaporates quickly, making it useful for removing certain residues from compatible surfaces and equipment.

What should I check before buying acetone?

Check the chemical identity, CAS number, grade, purity, packaging, SDS, COA where appropriate, quantity, and delivery requirements. Also make sure the product is suitable for the intended application.

Conclusion

Acetone is a versatile organic solvent used for much more than household cleaning or nail polish removal. It plays an important role in chemical manufacturing, coatings, adhesives, plastics, polymers, pharmaceuticals, textiles, electronics, cosmetics, laboratories, and industrial cleaning. Its chemical formula is C₃H₆O, its CAS number is 67-64-1, and its rapid evaporation and strong solvent properties make it useful across many industries.

If you are researching where to buy acetone, focus on the product’s chemical identity, grade, purity, documentation, packaging, and shipping requirements rather than price alone. For professional applications, always review the current SDS and follow the applicable chemical and fire-safety requirements.