Acetone

Abstract Acetone is a clear, colorless liquid that is highly flammable and infinitely soluble in water. Years of clinical study, laboratory testing, and practical experience have shown that acetone can be used safely and without harm in many industrial and commercial applications. The long‐standing interest in the biochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological properties of acetone can be traced to three important characteristics of the chemical: Acetone is a normal by‐product of mammalian metabolism; levels within the body can, however, be altered by changes in nutrition or energy balance. Acetone is a highly volatile organic solvent that is miscible with water; thus large amounts of the vapor can be absorbed through the lungs and quickly distributed throughout the body. Acetone is manufactured and used in large amounts in a variety of commercial and industrial applications; thus the potential for exogenous human exposure is widespread.