99% Isopropyl Alcohol is a highly effective disinfectant and cleaner that is commonly used in households, hospitals, and industries. However, it is too strong to be used directly and must be diluted before use. Diluting 99% Isopropyl Alcohol to 75% is the optimal concentration for disinfection purposes, and in this article, we’ll show you the steps to get your alcohol right.
What is Isopropyl Alcohol?
Isopropyl Alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is a colorless liquid with a strong odor that is commonly used as an antiseptic, disinfectant, and solvent. It is often used in medical facilities, households, and industries for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and equipment.
The Benefits of Isopropyl Alcohol
- Effective disinfectant
- Strong solvent and cleaner
- Quick-drying
- Non-toxic
- Affordable
Isopropyl Alcohol is an effective disinfectant that can kill a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it an ideal choice for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and equipment. It is also a strong solvent and cleaner that can dissolve grease, oils, and other contaminants quickly. Additionally, it is quick-drying, making it a convenient choice for cleaning and disinfecting.
Why Dilute Isopropyl Alcohol?
99% Isopropyl Alcohol is too strong to be used directly and must be diluted for use in most applications. This is because the high concentration of alcohol evaporates too quickly, leaving behind little time for the alcohol to affect the bacteria or viruses. Diluting Isopropyl Alcohol to a concentration of 75% provides the optimal balance of concentration and evaporation time, making it more effective in killing bacteria and viruses.
The Importance of the Right Concentration
Using the right concentration of Isopropyl Alcohol is crucial in achieving the desired results. Too much alcohol can be ineffective, while too little may not be strong enough to kill bacteria and viruses. Diluting Isopropyl Alcohol to a concentration of 75% is the optimal concentration for disinfection purposes, and anything below 60% may not be effective in killing bacteria and viruses.
How to Dilute 99% Isopropyl Alcohol to 75%
Diluting Isopropyl Alcohol is a simple process that can be achieved in just a few steps. Here’s how to get your alcohol right:
What You’ll Need
- 99% Isopropyl Alcohol
- Distilled water
- A clean container
- A measuring cup or scale
- A stirrer or spoon
Step 1: Calculate the Volume
To dilute 99% Isopropyl Alcohol to 75%, you’ll need to mix it with a calculated amount of distilled water. To do this, you’ll need to calculate the volume of alcohol you have and how much water you need to add to achieve a 75% concentration.
| Concentration | Volume of Alcohol | Volume of Water |
| 99% | 100ml | 0ml |
| 95% | 100ml | 7ml |
| 91% | 100ml | 15ml |
| 75% | 100ml | 25ml |
Table 1: Volume of Water Needed to Dilute Isopropyl Alcohol
Step 2: Measure the Isopropyl Alcohol
Measure the amount of 99% Isopropyl Alcohol needed using a measuring cup or scale and pour it into a clean container. Be sure to use a container that can hold at least double the volume of the alcohol, as you will need to add water to it in the next step.
Step 3: Add Distilled Water
Using the volume of water needed from Table 1, add the distilled water to the container with the Isopropyl Alcohol. You can add the water directly to the alcohol or use a dropper for precision. Be sure to mix the solution thoroughly using a stirrer or spoon to ensure it is well combined.
Step 4: Label and Store the Diluted Alcohol
Label the container with the concentration of the alcohol and the date of dilution. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
How to Use 75% Isopropyl Alcohol
Now that you’ve diluted your Isopropyl Alcohol to 75%, it’s ready to use. Here are some tips for using it effectively:
Clean the Surface
Clean the surface with soap and water before using the alcohol. This ensures that any dirt, grime, or oils on the surface are removed, allowing the alcohol to be more effective.
Wear Gloves
Wearing gloves when using Isopropyl Alcohol helps protect your skin from irritation or dryness that can occur from repeated use. It also helps prevent cross-contamination between surfaces.
Apply the Alcohol
Apply the 75% Isopropyl Alcohol to the surface using a cloth, cotton ball, or other applicator. Allow the alcohol to sit on the surface for at least 30 seconds before wiping it away with a clean cloth.
Avoid High Heat
Avoid using Isopropyl Alcohol on surfaces that are sensitive to heat, such as plastic or vinyl. The alcohol can cause the surface to crack or become discolored.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use tap water to dilute Isopropyl Alcohol?
- Q: Can I mix different concentrations of Isopropyl Alcohol?
- Q: Can I use Isopropyl Alcohol to disinfect my hands?
- Q: Can I use Isopropyl Alcohol to disinfect electronics?
A: No. Tap water can contain impurities, minerals, and chemicals that can react with Isopropyl Alcohol and reduce its effectiveness. Always use distilled water.
A: Yes. If you have different concentrations of Isopropyl Alcohol and want to mix them, you can use a formula to calculate the final concentration. Divide the total volume of alcohol by the sum of the volume of each concentration multiplied by their respective percentages. For example, if you have 100ml of 70% Isopropyl Alcohol and 50ml of 99% Isopropyl Alcohol, the formula would be 100/[(70 x 0.7) + (50 x 0.99)] = 81% concentration.
A: Yes. Isopropyl Alcohol can be used to disinfect your hands, but it is not recommended for frequent use as it can dry out your skin. Use soap and water whenever possible.
A: Yes. Isopropyl Alcohol can be used to disinfect electronics, but be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions first. Some electronics, such as screens or keyboards, can be damaged by alcohol. Use a microfiber cloth and avoid using excessive liquid.
Conclusion
Diluting 99% Isopropyl Alcohol to 75% is a simple process that can make a big difference in its effectiveness. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you’re using the right concentration of Isopropyl Alcohol for disinfection purposes. Remember to always wear gloves, use distilled water, and avoid high heat when using Isopropyl Alcohol. If you have any questions, consult with your healthcare provider or consult professional cleaning services for guidance.
References
The Isopropyl Alcohol Guide. (2021). Retrieved 28 April 2021, from https://www.nurydis.com/use-of-ipa/
Dilution Calculator. (2021). Retrieved 28 April 2021, from https://www.calculatorsoup.com/calculators/algebra/proportions-calculator.php