Acetone is the compound with formula C₃H₆O commonly used as the main solvent in nail-polish remover.
Acetone is the simplest ketone and is also called propanone or 2-propanone. Its carbonyl group makes it an effective solvent for many organic substances, including some resins, paints, inks, and nail-polish polymers. It evaporates readily because it has a relatively low boiling point of about 56 °C.
The human body produces small amounts of acetone during the breakdown of fat. Elevated acetone levels can occur during ketosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, where acetone contributes to a characteristic fruity breath odor. Industrial acetone is manufactured mainly alongside phenol in the cumene process.
Acetone is highly flammable and should be used with good ventilation and away from ignition sources. Nail-polish removers may also contain ethyl acetate, isopropyl alcohol, or water, so not every remover has acetone as its main solvent.