Isoamyl alcohol, also known as isopentanol, is a colorless, clear liquid with a mild, choking alcohol odor. It is less dense than water, soluble in water, and floats on water. It produces an irritating vapor.
Isoamyl alcohol is a primary alcohol with the chemical formula (CH3)2CHCH2CH2OH. It is one of the isomers of amyl alcohol, which is a generic term for any of the five alcohols with the formula C5H12O. The other isomers of amyl alcohol are n-amyl alcohol, sec-amyl alcohol, tert-amyl alcohol, and neo-amyl alcohol.
Isoamyl alcohol is a natural product found in many plants, including bananas, grapes, and raspberries. It is also produced synthetically from petroleum.
Isoamyl alcohol has a variety of uses, including:
- As a flavoring agent in food and beverages
- As a solvent in paints, varnishes, and adhesives
- As a starting material for the production of other chemicals, such as perfumes and pharmaceuticals
- As an antifoaming agent in industrial processes
Isoamyl alcohol is considered to be a low-toxicity chemical, but it can be harmful if ingested or inhaled in large quantities. It can also cause skin irritation.
Here are some additional safety information about isoamyl alcohol:
- Keep out of reach of children.
- If ingested, call poison control immediately.
- If inhaled, move to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
- If skin contact occurs, wash the area with soap and water.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when handling isoamyl alcohol.
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