Zenco Systems LtdChemical Division
+254114591982info@zencochemicals.comChat on WhatsAppGet a Quote

Acetone

Acetone is a versatile solvent widely used in manufacturing, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals across East Africa.

Acetone is frequently specified by industrial procurement teams due to its exceptional solvency and rapid evaporation, making it indispensable in several production and cleaning processes.

Packaging

5L, 10L, 20L, 25kg, 50kg, 200L drum

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is Acetone?

Acetone is frequently specified by industrial procurement teams due to its exceptional solvency and rapid evaporation, making it indispensable in several production and cleaning processes. Buyers prioritize acetone for its purity, consistency, and supply reliability, ensuring seamless integration into formulations and cleaning applications.

Chemically known as propan-2-one (C3H6O), acetone is a colorless, volatile liquid with a sharp, distinctive odor. It is miscible with water and many organic solvents. This compound plays critical roles in pharma and cosmetics manufacturing, adhesives formulation, paint thinning, and laboratory processes. In East Africa, where industries demand dependable chemical suppliers, Zenco Systems Ltd offers acetone to Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries, assuring quality control and steady delivery.

Understanding the physical and chemical properties of acetone allows operations teams to optimize handling and usage, aligning with safety protocols and application requirements.

Acetone: Detailed Product Overview

Acetone is a simple ketone characterized by the formula C3H6O, presenting as a highly volatile and flammable liquid. Its molecular structure – a carbonyl group flanked by two methyl groups – imparts solvent capabilities especially effective at dissolving polar and nonpolar substances. Acetone’s polarity, combined with low molecular weight, enables miscibility with water and organic solvents, making it a universal solvent in industrial and laboratory settings.

The volatility of acetone, boiling at just 56°C, supports its use in processes requiring rapid drying or evaporation. This attribute is leveraged in applications such as paint thinning or cleaning, where residue-free surfaces are vital post-application. Beyond solvency, acetone’s reactivity merits consideration; it can participate in condensation reactions and other chemical syntheses, particularly in pharma and chemical manufacturing.

In procurement and quality checks, purity is critical; traces of water, alcohols, or other contaminants degrade solvent performance. Zenco Systems Ltd provides acetone batches with verified specifications covering purity and grade, aligning with industry standards. Operationally, acetone’s low flash point demands strict adherence to storage and handling protocols to mitigate fire hazards. Compatibility with container materials such as glass, specific plastics, and steel drums aids in maintaining product integrity during transit and storage.

Reliable supply and consistent quality underpin industrial users’ confidence in acetone. Across East African markets, Zenco Systems Ltd combines technical service with logistical capacities to meet demand patterns in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and nearby regions.

Applications and Uses of Acetone

Solvent in Manufacturing and Adhesives

Acetone is used extensively as a solvent to dissolve many synthetic polymers and resins, facilitating adhesive formulations and manufacturing processes. It ensures uniform consistency in mixtures by quickly dissolving solid components without leaving residues, crucial for products like glue sticks, nail adhesives, and industrial bonding agents.

Cosmetic Ingredient Solvent

In cosmetics, acetone acts as a carrier solvent for active ingredients in nail polishes, removers, and skincare formulations. Its rapid evaporation ensures quick drying times, a key feature for cosmetic products where texture and finish depend on fast solvent removal without compromising formulation stability.

Pharmaceutical Solvent

Acetone serves as a solvent and intermediate in pharmaceutical synthesis, helping dissolve active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) during drug formulation. Its purity level is critical to avoid impurities in final drug products. Controlled acetone use enhances product consistency in tablets, creams, and gels.

Laboratory Reagent

Laboratories rely on acetone for cleaning glassware and equipment to remove organic residues efficiently. It is also employed as a medium in chromatography and sample preparation due to its ability to dissolve a broad range of compounds without interfering chemically.

Cleaning and Degreasing Agent

Acetone’s strong solvency powers make it an excellent degreaser, used to clean machinery parts, remove oils, waxes, and adhesives. It evaporates quickly, leaving surfaces dry and free from residue, reducing downtime in industrial maintenance and improving equipment longevity.

Plastic Production

In plastics manufacturing, acetone is used to dissolve polymers or prepare surface treatments on plastic products. It helps improve adhesion in multi-layered plastic assemblies and supports molding processes by cleaning mold surfaces or thinning resin solutions.

Paint Thinning

Acetone’s compatibility with many paint formulations allows it to act as a thinner or solvent remover during paint application or cleanup. Its volatility ensures rapid drying, providing a smooth, even finish without extended drying times common to heavier solvents.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Pharma & Cosmetics range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Wide Solvent Compatibility

Acetone dissolves both polar and non-polar substances efficiently because of its balanced molecular polarity. This capability makes it suitable for diverse formulations in adhesives, paints, and pharmaceuticals, reducing the need to source multiple specialized solvents.

Fast Evaporation Rate

Acetone evaporates quickly due to its low boiling point, which shortens drying times in coatings, cleaning, and cosmetic applications. This rapid evaporation reduces production cycle times and speeds up application processes, improving operational efficiency.

High Purity and Consistency

Zenco Systems Ltd supplies acetone meeting strict quality standards, ensuring homogeneity batch after batch. This consistency is vital for formulation stability and predictable performance, minimizing variations that can disrupt production outcomes.

Cost-Effective Solvent Choice

Compared to many specialty solvents, acetone provides a cost-effective solution without sacrificing efficacy. Its efficient solvency and multipurpose nature lower overall procurement complexity and inventory costs for industrial users.

Availability Across East Africa

Prompt access to acetone through Zenco Systems Ltd in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and beyond minimizes supply chain risks. This regional reach supports manufacturers and labs with reliable deliveries respecting just-in-time production demands.

Packaging Information

Acetone is supplied in versatile packaging options to suit various operational scales and handling practices common in East Africa. Available containers include 5L, 10L, and 20L plastic or metal drums for smaller batch uses. For industrial users and bulk consumers, 25kg and 50kg drums provide convenient mid-sized options, while 200L metal drums support large volume needs. Zenco Systems Ltd coordinates packaging choices aligned with cross-border logistics, ensuring stable transport to Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and regional customers, with compatibility to local storage facilities and occupational safety standards.

Standard formats: 5L, 10L, 20L, 25kg, 50kg, 200L drum

Storage and Handling

Store acetone in tightly closed containers situated in cool, well-ventilated areas away from ignition sources due to its high flammability and low flash point. Preferred containers include steel drums or compatible plastics resistant to solvent attack. Avoid storage near oxidizers or incompatible chemicals. Limit exposure to heat and sunlight to prevent degradation or pressure build-up within sealed containers. Use grounding and bonding during transfer to avoid static sparks. Shelf life depends on container seal integrity but typically extends for 12 months under recommended conditions. Always handle using gloves and eye protection to prevent irritation from vapors and liquid contact.

Safety Information

Acetone is a flammable liquid and vapor presenting fire and explosion risks when exposed to ignition sources. Use appropriate personal protective equipment, including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and adequate ventilation to minimize inhalation exposure. In case of skin contact, wash with water immediately; flush eyes thoroughly if exposed. Avoid breathing vapors, which can cause dizziness or headache at high concentrations. Dispose of used acetone and contaminated materials following local hazardous waste regulations. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) supplied by Zenco Systems Ltd for comprehensive hazard, first aid, and firefighting instructions.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
Density0.7845 g/cm³ at 20°C (typical)
FormulaC3H6O
Packaging5L, 10L, 20L, 25kg, 50kg, 200L drum
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
CAS Number67-64-1
SolubilityMiscible with water and most organic solvents
Flash Point-20°C (closed cup)
Boiling Point56°C
Chemical NameAcetone
Storage ConditionsKeep container tightly closed in a cool, well-ventilated area

Applications

  • Solvent in manufacturing and adhesives
  • Cosmetic ingredient solvent
  • Pharmaceutical solvent
  • Laboratory reagent
  • Cleaning and degreasing agent
  • Plastic production
  • Paint thinning

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
Density0.7845 g/cm³ at 20°C (typical)
FormulaC3H6O
Packaging5L, 10L, 20L, 25kg, 50kg, 200L drum
AppearanceColorless transparent liquid
CAS Number67-64-1
SolubilityMiscible with water and most organic solvents
Flash Point-20°C (closed cup)
Boiling Point56°C
Chemical NameAcetone
Storage ConditionsKeep container tightly closed in a cool, well-ventilated area

Product Features

  • - Colorless, volatile liquid
  • - Highly miscible with water and organics
  • - Low boiling point at ~56°C
  • - Pungent characteristic odor
  • - Rapid evaporation for fast drying
  • - Flammable with low flash point

Industries Served

  • - Pharmaceuticals
  • - Cosmetics
  • - Adhesives and sealants
  • - Paints and coatings
  • - Plastics manufacturing
  • - Laboratories and research
  • - Automotive maintenance

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About Acetone

What is acetone used for in the pharmaceutical industry?

Acetone is used as a solvent and intermediate in drug formulation, helping dissolve active ingredients and ensuring purity in tablets, creams, and gels.

What purity of acetone do you supply?

Purity levels vary by application requirement. Confirm exact purity with Zenco Systems Ltd when placing an order, as certificates of analysis accompany deliveries.

How should acetone be stored safely?

Store acetone in cool, well-ventilated areas away from flames. Use compatible containers like steel drums, keep them tightly closed, and avoid heat or direct sunlight.

Do you supply acetone outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd distributes acetone across East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and neighboring countries with reliable cross-border logistics.

Are there limitations to acetone’s compatibility with other chemicals?

Acetone is incompatible with strong oxidizers, acids, alkalis, and certain plastics. Check chemical compatibility before storage or mixing to avoid hazardous reactions.

What packaging options are available for acetone?

Acetone is available in 5L, 10L, 20L containers, 25kg and 50kg drums, and 200L industrial drums to meet diverse operational needs.

Is acetone safe for cosmetic use?

Yes, when used under specified formulation concentrations and handling guidelines, acetone is a common solvent in nail products and cosmetics.

How do I dispose of acetone waste?

Dispose of acetone according to local hazardous waste regulations. Avoid pouring it into drains or open environments due to flammability and environmental impact.

What personal protective equipment (PPE) should be used when handling acetone?

Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling vapors or skin contact.

How fast does acetone evaporate after application?

Due to its low boiling point of 56°C, acetone evaporates within minutes at room temperature, facilitating rapid drying in cleaning and coating processes.

Related Products

More chemicals in Pharma & Cosmetics

View category

Contact Hub

Select how you would like to reach Zenco desk:

WhatsApp

Quick response for pricing, quotations, and follow-up

RECOMMENDED

Call Us

+254114591982

DIRECT

Email

info@zencochemicals.com

AI Assistant

Product guidance, quotation prep, and category discovery