Tech Grade vs. USP Grade Isopropyl Alcohol: Which One Should You Choose?

Key Takeaways:

• The key differences? Purity, allowed contaminants, and industry regulations
• USP and technical are two primary Isopropyl alcohol grades 
• The grade you select must depend on how you plan to use it.
• Technical grade contains more impurities and is most suitable for industrial tasks, such as degreasing.

Why Do Isopropyl Alcohol Grades Matter? 

Choosing the right grade of isopropyl alcohol is the difference between efficiency and disaster. The right grade means compliant processes and low expenses. Whereas the wrong grade can lead to failed lab results, compliance issues, and unnecessary expenses.

And whether you need the isopropyl alcohol for procurement or quality assurance, knowing the difference between tech grade vs. USP grade isopropyl alcohol is vital.

Each grade has a different purity level and is made for specific uses. Once you understand these two factors, choosing between the two becomes much easier. 

Understanding Isopropyl Alcohol Grades

Various grades of isopropyl alcohol are designed for specific applications, each meeting distinct standards. The two main isopropyl alcohol grades you’ll often come across are tech grade and USP grade. There are other grades as well, like laboratory grade and reagent grade, which are used in research and specialized chemical work. But for now, let’s focus on tech and USP grade. 

What Is Tech Grade IPA?

With technical-grade isopropyl alcohol, ultra-high purity isn’t paramount. It is mostly used for large-scale commercial applications and tasks such as cleaning machinery, removing grease, and so on. Cost-wise, it is quite economical. 

What Is USP Grade IPA?

On the other hand, the USP grade isopropyl alcohol purity level is about 99.0% or higher (not 100 percent). To ensure these levels, it has to go through some of the strictest purity standards set by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and the National Formulary (NF).

For a manufacturer to carry the ‘USP label’, they must adhere to these rigorous testing and documentation standards. It ensures safety when purity is a priority.

Key Differences Between Tech Grade vs. USP Grade Isopropyl Alcohol

What makes USP grade and technical grade different? 

There are two primary differentiators: 

1. Purity 
2. Who Regulates

When it comes to isopropyl alcohol, the difference between tech grade and USP grade comes down to purity and purpose. Tech grade is great for industrial use, such as cleaning machinery or surfaces where ultra-high purity isn’t critical. 

USP grade, on the other hand, complies with strict pharmaceutical standards. Which means it is safe to use on skin or in medical settings. 

Applications

• Technical/Industrial Grade Isopropyl Alcohol Uses:
  
  
  • Technical grade isopropyl alcohol is ideal when speed and cost matter more than the purity levels. For example, in manufacturing, tech-grade IPA is commonly used as a solvent or for cleaning tasks such as removing grease and grime.
  • Paint thinners and various industrial products also use it, primarily because of its versatility and affordable price.

• USP/Pharmaceutical Grade Isopropyl Alcohol Uses:
  
  • USP-grade isopropyl alcohol is a solvent widely used in the pharmaceutical industry. In labs, it is often used for analytical procedures like chromatography that require a very clean and impurity-free solvent.
    
  • The use of USP-grade IPA is not just limited to this. It is also used for cleaning and keeping spaces germ-free, making it ideal for keeping healthcare places and labs safe and clean.
    

Choosing Between 70% and 99% Isopropyl Alcohol 

Knowing which grade of Alcohol is not enough. You must also be aware of the concentration strength. Both tech and USP grade IPA come in 70% and 99% concentration levels, serving different purposes. And note: these are not interchangeable.

Comparing 70% vs. 99% Isopropyl Alcohol

Choosing the Right Grade for Your Application

How does one select the right isopropyl alcohol? 

For tasks that do not require meeting strict sanitary standards, such as cleaning in factories, technical grade is sufficient. It helps save money while still getting the job done.

However, if you are making medicine or need it for laboratory use, USP grade isopropyl alcohol is necessary. Its high purity levels make it ideal for sensitive spaces. 

Before choosing the right grade of isopropyl alcohol, consider:

• The sensitivity of the task at hand  
• Legal or industry regulations you must follow 
• Budget 

Not choosing the correct grade can lead to unfavorable results and, at times, expensive critical errors.

Choosing the Right Concentration for Your Work

Again, choosing between 70% and 99% isopropyl alcohol depends on the application and the level of control required.

70% isopropyl alcohol is best used when disinfection is the main use. Since it stays on the surface longer than the 99% solution, it is more effective in killing bacteria and viruses. 

The 99% concentrated IPA is best used in environments that require fast drying and minimal moisture (electronics repair, machinery cleaning, etc).

If you are still not sure about whether to pick 70% or 99% isopropyl alcohol, you can talk to experts at DL Group for tailored consultations. 

What is the most acceptable chemical grade?

The best chemical grade to use depends on what you need it for.

There are ACS grade chemicals that follow strict rules set by the American Chemical Society. People choose these for lab and testing jobs when they need high accuracy. Since their purity is very high, these chemicals are ideal for sensitive lab-related work.

When it comes to medicine and health, USP grade chemicals are key. USP grade is carefully tested and is safe to use where people are involved. For example, for teaching or presenting purposes, lab-grade chemicals are good enough. However, for more sensitive or critical work, it is not the right choice.

To get the right grade for your needs, consider purity standards, regulations, cost, and the intended use. It is essential to consider all these factors. 

Pros and Cons of Isopropyl Alcohol Grades

Both technical grade and USP grade isopropyl alcohol have their benefits and limitations. Here's a quick comparison table to help you decide:

Conclusion

Choosing between technical grade and USP grade isopropyl alcohol should feel a little less confusing now. Essentially, it boils down to two things: what you need it for and purity levels.

In industrial spaces where purity can be compromised, you can settle for technical grade. But for anything sensitive, like pharmaceuticals or lab tests, USP grade is ideal. 

Choosing the right concentration level is equally critical. You must carefully choose between 70% and 99% isopropyl alcohol. Use 70% isopropyl alcohol when you need the solution to stay on surfaces longer. For quick-drying tasks like electronics or machinery cleaning, 99% is a better choice.

Whether you need 70% grade isopropyl alcohol or 99% grade isopropyl alcohol, DL Group offers all variants of both tech grade and USP grade isopropyl alcohol in wholesale quantities at affordable prices. 

Get in touch for expert consultation. We can help you pick the right solution for your needs.