Isopropyl Myristate (IPM) is an ester that is formed from myristic acid with isopropanol. It is a liquid that is colourless, and as such, Isopropyl Myristate can be used in various applications — ranging from personal care to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. This type of ester is a vegetable based ester. This makes it have less or no odour, which has been produced with the highest standards.
Uses of Isopropyl Myristate
- Used in pharmaceuticals
Isopropyl Myristate esters are used in perfumes, cosmetics, food additives, for the manufacture of artificial fibers, paints, varnishes, glue. They serve as starting materials in the production of many pharmaceuticals. - Are used as solvents for paints, varnishes, resins and polymers
Since they are mixed with many organic substances, they are used as solvents for varnishes and paints. Ethyl formate and ethyl acetate are used as solvents for cellulose varnishes. Vinyl acetate is used for the production of polyvinyl acetate resins, adhesives, and paints. - Used in food and perfume industry
Isopropyl Myristate esters are used in the food industry to create fruit essences and in the perfumery industry (the manufacture of soaps, perfumes, creams). - Manufacture of plastics and rubbers.
From waxes, varnishes, greases, impregnating compositions for the waxed paper, and skin are made, they are also part of cosmetic creams and medicinal ointments. When organic synthesis took its first steps, many esters were synthesized and tested by pharmacologists. They became the basis of such drugs as salol, validol, etc. Methyl salicylate was widely used as a locally irritating and analgesic drug, which is now practically supplanted by more effective agents.
Under normal conditions, Isopropyl Myristate can be liquid without color, with a fruity or floral smell, or solid, plastic, usually odorless. The longer the chain of the hydrocarbon radical, the harder the substance. As a result of the hydrolysis reaction, they decompose into alcohol and acid. Hydrolysis of fats in an alkaline environment does not lead to the formation of acid, but soap.
Isopropyl Myristate esters are widespread and contribute highly to human life. They are also used in various fields of production like medicines, paints and varnishes, perfumes, lubricants, polymers, synthetic fibers, and much more.