Acetone

Acetone (CAS 67-64-1) is a low-molecular-weight ketone solvent, also known commercially as Propanone, 2-Propanone, and beta-Ketopropane, with the trade designation Taimax appearing in certain supplier catalogues. It is fully miscible with water and most organic solvents, making it a benchmark reference solvent in laboratory and industrial settings.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, acetone serves as a recrystallisation solvent and extraction medium, dissolving active compounds while allowing controlled precipitation at reduced temperatures. In plastics processing, it attacks and softens polymer surfaces, enabling solvent welding of ABS and similar thermoplastics. Metal fabrication operations rely on it to strip oils and particulates from substrates prior to coating or bonding.

Acetone is supplied in technical, pharmaceutical (Ph.Eur., USP), and reagent grades, with REACH registration covering industrial supply within the EU. Packaging typically ranges from 25-litre drums to ISO tank containers for bulk procurement. Buyers should confirm grade specification against intended application, particularly where residual solvent limits apply under ICH Q3C guidelines.