|  | Public Health Safety | Food Safety

Trace Levels of Acetone in Paper

Acetone is an organic compound naturally occurring in plants, trees, forest fires and volcanic gases. In addition, acetone is manufactured for industrial uses and is a byproduct of industrial processes, landfill decomposition and automotive exhaust. The chemical is colorless and liquid and has a strong taste and smell. While pure acetone is not used to manufacture paper, acetone and acetone isomers or compounds are sometimes used to assist in paper-related production processes.

  1. Acetone Solvents and Wallpaper

    • Solvents are solutions of specific chemicals that aid in dissolving other compounds. Acetone solvent is useful in dissolving water-insoluble materials. Acetone solvents are used to produce wallpaper by assisting with the printing process. The presence of acetone solvents allows for inks to adhere to the paper.

    Acetone in Slimicide Preparation

    • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration defines slimicides as "antimicrobial agents to control slime in the manufacture of paper and paperboard." Acetone is a common chemical used to prepare slimicides. Acetone has been deemed safe for use in this application, being recognized by the FDA as safe for use to produce paper and paperboard.

    Propylene Oxide in Defoaming Agents

    • Propylene oxide is one of 15 isomers of acetone. Isomers are related chemicals composed of identical elements that are present in the same levels of the chemicals but differ based on the organization of atoms. Propylene oxide is a chemical used in producing defoaming agents during paper and paperboard production. Defoaming agents stop foaming from occurring during the manufacturing process. Propylene oxide reacts with fatty acids, fatty triglycerides and marine oils to aid in creating defoaming agents.

    Polymers Prepared Using Propionaldehyde

    • Propionaldehyde, an acetone isomer, is contained in a polymer compound used in manufacturing paper and paperboard products. The polymer is created using urea, ethanedial and formaldehyde, and the acetone isomer propionaldehyde is used in paper coatings. Propionaldehyde is used in packaging dry food products. The FDA limits how it can be used. The FDA limits its application to serving as a protein and starch reactant in paper and paperboard coatings.

Food Safety - Related Articles