The primary method of producing isopropyl alcohol is through the hydration of propylene, a process that involves catalysis. There are two main routes: direct hydration and indirect hydration. In the direct hydration route, propylene and water react in the presence of acidic catalysts such as phosphoric acid. In the indirect route, propylene reacts with sulfuric acid to form isopropyl sulfate, which is then hydrolyzed to produce isopropyl alcohol.
