Get the IPA you need for performance-critical applications, backed by responsive support and flexible logistics.
What is Isopropyl Alcohol?
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), or 2-propanol, is a versatile solvent and chemical intermediate used across a wide range of industrial applications. It is a secondary alcohol produced primarily through the hydration of propylene—a petrochemical process that enables efficient, large-scale manufacturing.
IPA is valued for its strong solvency, rapid evaporation rate, and compatibility with both water and organic compounds. It plays a critical role in chemical synthesis, industrial cleaning, and formulation in markets like paints, coatings, and personal care. Available in multiple concentrations—typically 70%, 91%, and 99%—it can be tailored to meet application-specific performance and purity requirements.
Because of its wide range of end uses, IPA remains one of the most in-demand and widely distributed solvents in the chemical industry.
Key Uses of Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl Alcohol’s chemical versatility and solvency make it indispensable across a wide range of industries. Whether it’s serving as a raw material, cleaning solution, or formulation aid, IPA adapts to the demands of high-performance environments. Below are some of its most common and critical applications.
Chemical Manufacturing: Solvent and Intermediate
Isopropyl Alcohol plays a critical role as both a solvent and a chemical intermediate in countless manufacturing processes.
It’s used to dissolve hydrophobic substances like oils, resins, waxes, and polymers—enabling efficient chemical reactions, extractions, and purifications. IPA is also used in the production of acetone, isopropyl esters, and other downstream compounds. In batch processes, it serves as a cleaning fluid for tanks, lines, and reactors, helping operators maintain product purity and avoid costly cross-contamination.
Cleaning: Adhesive Removal and Disinfectant
With its excellent solvency, quick evaporation, and minimal residue, IPA is a go-to solvent in industrial and institutional cleaning.
It’s used to remove grease, oils, inks, and adhesives from equipment and hard surfaces without leaving behind moisture or contaminants. In controlled environments—such as electronics, medical device manufacturing, and pharmaceutical packaging—IPA is trusted for its effectiveness and consistency. It’s also a key active ingredient in hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes, offering broad-spectrum antimicrobial performance when blended at the right concentrations.
Paints and Coatings: Dilution, Blending, Smoothing
IPA is widely used in the formulation of paints, coatings, inks, and surface treatments. It serves as a diluent and co-solvent to improve viscosity, flow, and drying time. Its ability to solubilize both organic and water-based components makes it ideal for blending pigments, resins, and additives.
This chemical enhances leveling and film formation, helping manufacturers achieve smoother finishes and faster cure times. It’s also used for cleaning application tools and production equipment, ensuring efficiency in both formulation and end-use environments.
Isopropyl Alcohol Supplier: Meadows Chemical
We understand that sourcing IPA isn’t just about getting a commodity product—it’s about consistency, logistics, and trust. Whether you’re buying in bulk for production or securing supply for critical cleaning and formulation processes, we deliver more than product; we deliver performance.
Reliable Sourcing
We maintain strong relationships with top-tier producers and import partners, giving our customers access to a dependable, diversified IPA supply—including both prime and off-spec material. This flexibility allows us to offer cost-effective options without compromising on performance or purity.
Responsive Service
Our team is built for speed. We pride ourselves on quick quote turnaround, same-day order confirmations, and proactive communication from order to delivery. If there’s a challenge in the supply chain, we’re already working on a solution before you call.
Tailored to Your Application
We offer multiple grades and concentrations—from 70% and 91% to high-purity 99%—to meet the exact needs of your process. Whether you need IPA for a blending operation, sanitizing line, or chemical reaction, we’ll help you match the right product to your spec.
Packaging That Fits Your Operation
From drums and totes to bulk tank trucks, our flexible packaging and delivery options keep your operations moving. And because our logistics network is tuned for speed and scale, we can service facilities across the Gulf Coast and beyond with minimal lead times.
A Partner, Not Just a Vendor
Meadows Chemical was built to serve customers who value fast answers, fair pricing, and long-term relationships. Our experienced logistics team, strong credit lines, and commitment to follow-through set us apart in a market that too often treats chemicals like just another SKU.
Isopropyl Alcohol FAQs
Is isopropyl alcohol the same as rubbing alcohol?
Not exactly. Rubbing alcohol typically contains 70% Isopropyl Alcohol and 30% water or other additives. Pure IPA (91%–99%) is used for industrial and technical applications, while rubbing alcohol is often formulated for topical use.
What is the difference between 70%, 91%, and 99% IPA?
The percentages refer to the concentration of pure Isopropyl Alcohol in water. 70% is more effective for disinfection because water slows evaporation, increasing surface contact time. 91% and 99% are used in industrial, electronic, and lab settings where quick evaporation and low water content are critical.
Can IPA be mixed with water?
Yes. Isopropyl Alcohol is fully miscible with water, which allows it to be diluted to specific concentrations for various uses, including sanitizing, cooling, or formulation purposes.
Get in Touch With Meadows Chemical
Isopropyl Alcohol is a proven performer across industries—versatile, reliable, and essential to countless operations. At Meadows Chemical, we make it easy to source the right grade, quantity, and packaging to keep your processes running efficiently.
Contact us today to learn more about isopropyl alcohol, download the sds, or request a price quote.