Is it safe to use 75% Alcohol with PP and other plastic-made container

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the safety of using 75% isopropyl alcohol with polypropylene (PP) and other plastic containers commonly available in the consumer market for cleaning purposes. Participants explore potential chemical reactions, compatibility, and the safety of various alcohol concentrations in relation to both the containers and the items being cleaned.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the safety of using 75% isopropyl alcohol with PP and other plastics, specifically regarding potential reactions and the release of toxic gases.
  • Another participant suggests that while some plastics may swell in isopropyl alcohol, polypropylene is unlikely to be affected.
  • There is a request for clarification on the term "in the IPA," indicating a need for understanding the implications of using isopropyl alcohol on plastics.
  • A participant provides a link to a chemical compatibility chart for polypropylene, indicating excellent compatibility with isopropyl alcohol, but notes that this is not the case at elevated temperatures.
  • One participant confirms that IPA stands for isopropyl alcohol and suggests that cleaning with consumer-type alcohol is likely safe, recommending a test drop to check for surface damage.
  • Another participant mentions that standard bottles for isopropyl alcohol are typically made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of confidence regarding the safety and compatibility of isopropyl alcohol with polypropylene and other plastics. While some suggest it is likely safe, others raise concerns about potential reactions and damage, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference chemical compatibility and the potential for surface damage, but there are no definitive conclusions about the safety of using 75% isopropyl alcohol with all types of plastics.

kenny1999
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Is it safe to use 75% Alcohol (Isopropyl) with PP and other plastic made container commonly found in the consumer market for cleaning? Could
there be any reaction and release toxic / harmful gases or materials?

I once studied Chemistry but left school for decades
 
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Other gases than just the alcohol vapor? Highly unlikely. Some plastics can swell in the IPA, but I doubt PP will.
 
Borek said:
Other gases than just the alcohol vapor? Highly unlikely. Some plastics can swell in the IPA, but I doubt PP will.

What does it mean "in the IPA"? In other words, can I safely clean the plastic stuff with consumer type alcohol of various concentrations which are safe to both the surrounding and the stuff itself (not damaging it)??
 
kenny1999 said:
What does it mean "in the IPA"?

IPA = isopropyl alcohol.

In other words, can I safely clean the plastic stuff with consumer type alcohol of various concentrations which are safe to both the surrounding and the stuff itself (not damaging it)??

Most likely - yes. Making a test by putting a drop of IPA on the surface and waiting won't hurt - not because of the health concerns, but to make sure it doesn't damage the surface leaving a stain.
 
The standard bottles in which isopropyl alcohol (both 72% and 91%) is sold are HDPE (high density polyethylene).
 

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