Defination: A solvent is a substance that dissolves a solute
(a chemically distinct liquid, solid or gas), resulting in a solution.
Solute + Solvent = Solution
For example, your first sip of coffee is the same
consistency as your final sip. A solution is made up of a solute,
which is the substance being dissolved, and a solvent.
Application of Solvents in Different Section
1.Digital
Printing
2. Paints
and Coatings
3. Healthcare
Applications
4. Cleaning
Products
5. Automotive
Physical
properties of solvents
(Non-Polar solvents)
(Non-Polar solvents)
Use of
Solvents in Paints and Coatings
In
paints, solvents dissolve or disperse the components used in the paint
formulation, to make paint the desired consistency for application and to avoid
clumps or globs.
Glycol
ether esters are added to spray paints to prevent them from drying in
mid-air.
For
example, can get several smooth, flawless applications of paint for a
beautiful, more durable finish.
Healthcare Applications
- Solvents are used in hundreds of pharmaceutical products and contribute to many of the medicines. People use today, from penicillin to aspirin, cough syrup and topical ointments.
- Butyl acetate is used to purify penicillin by keeping impurities in solution while the penicillin is selectively removed from the reaction mixture by extraction.
Common Industrial Solvents
- Acetone
- Toluene
- Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
- Gun Wash
Acetone
- Acetone is commonly used to clean tools, prepare metal surfaces for welding, and as a heavy duty degreaser.
- The chemical has a low flash point and high vapor pressure, making it extremely flammable in both its liquid and vapor states.
Methyl Ethyl Ketone
1. Methyl
Ethyl Ketone (MEK) also known as Butanone is commonly used as an industrial
solvent.
2. MEK
is also an irritant. It must be kept away from direct contact with skin and
eyes, and its vapour is very irritating to lungs. For this reason, anyone
working with this solvent must wear splash goggles, full suit, boots, gloves
and vapour respirator. If ventilation is insufficient, self contained breathing
apparatus should also be used
Toluene
1. Toluene
is another common industrial solvent. It is toxic to people in a number of
ways. Direct contact with skin and eyes is irritating.
2. Breathing in Toluene vapour can cause dizziness,
confusion, headaches, fatigue and other distressing symptoms. Inhaling high
levels of vapour may cause depression, permanent brain damage and even death.
Effect of Solvents
1. High dose-Unconsciousness
2. Hallucinations
3. Distorted Vision
4. Unsteady gait and lack of Control
5. Slurred Speech
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