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Ethanol is an organic chemical compound with a C2H5OH chemical formula. It belongs to the ‘alcohols’ group, and it’s the main ingredient in alcoholic beverages.
Also known as ethyl or grain alcohol, pure ethanol contains 95% ethanol and 5% water. It’s a clear liquid with an ethereal odor,78.5 degrees boiling point, and highly flammable.
Pure ethanol can be produced naturally through the fermentation of sugars by yeast or through ethylene hydration. Organic products, including beets and sugarcane, are used during yeast fermentation.
Ethanol produced from both methods is concentrated through fractional distillation to produce 95% or pure ethanol.
Uses Of Pure Ethanol
Pure ethanol has various applications at home, manufacturing industries, fuel, and in medicine;
As An Antiseptic
Pure ethanol is used in antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizers because it is highly effective against bacteria and viruses. According to research, ethanol is effective against Escherichia coli and staphylococcus aureus bacteria.
It kills bacteria by denaturing the proteins on their cell walls. The center for disease control recommends 60% ethanol or more for use in hand sanitizers. In addition,60-80% ethanol is effective against Rhinovirus, herpes, and influenza viruses.
In Beauty Products
Methanol or acetone is added to pure ethanol, denatured ethanol. The latter is used in cosmetics and beauty products to improve absorption on the skin. Ethanol is highly volatile, and it evaporates fast, leaving a refreshing feeling on the skin. In addition, it has antibacterial properties, making it ideal for preserving cosmetic and beauty products.
As a Solvent
Pure ethanol dissolves many polar and non-polar compounds. As a result, it makes a great solvent for synthesizing other organic products. Additionally, it’s used in lacquers, paints, varnishes, and cleaning products. Its also incorporated in certain cough syrups and pain medications to dissolve the active ingredients. Besides, ethanol is used in mouthwashes because of its anti-bacterial properties.
In Food Additives
Pure ethanol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Thus, it’s used in food additives to enhance colorings and extract aromas and flavors. Its also used as a preservative in croissants and pizza crusts. However, the levels should not exceed 2%.
In Beverages
Ethanol manufactured through yeast fermentation is used in alcoholic beverages, including wines, beers, and gins. Thus, it’s the main ingredient responsible for causing intoxication in these beverages.
As a Preservative
Pure ethanol is used in laboratories to preserve biological specimens. Its also used to prevent the deterioration of cosmetic products. In addition, it added to croissants and pizzas to prevent bacterial degradation.
As a Fuel Additive
Pure ethanol is added to gasoline to improve its octane ratings and prevent engine knocking. The mixture contains 90% gasoline and 10% ethanol, commonly known as E10. Ethanol is cleaner than gasoline, and it prevents toxic emissions by oxygenating the fuel.
Pure Ethanol Safety
Ethanol is highly flammable. Thus, you should not use it on an open flame. Even though ethanol is generally recognized as safe, (GRAS) consuming it can lead to severe poisoning or death. Thus, it should only be consumed in beverages. Inhalation of ethanol can cause severe poisoning accompanied by headaches and cough.
Accidental skin exposure can cause severe skin irritation. Thus, wash it off with warm soapy water and rinse with clean water. Seek medical intervention if the irritation continues. Ensure to use the protective gear, including safety goggles, face shield, rubber gloves, and overall. If you accidentally inhale ethanol, move to a well-ventilated room and seek medical intervention.
If you accidentally splash ethanol into your eyes, flush it out with clean water and seek medical help. And if you accidentally ingest it, do not attempt to induce vomiting. Instead, seek immediate medical help.
Conclusion
Pure ethanol has a 95% concentration. Its made by ethylene hydration or yeast fermentation and has various applications at home and in manufacturing industries. For instance, it’s used in alcoholic beverages, food additives, antiseptics, and fuel additives. Pure ethanol is also used as a preservative in beauty products and for preserving biological specimens in laboratories. Furthermore, its added to gasoline to improve its octane ratings.
Although pure ethanol is generally recognized as safe, it’s only safe for consumption in alcoholic beverages. It can also cause skin irritation when accidentally exposed to human skin. Thus, ensure to use protective gear when using ethanol to prevent accidental spillages and ingestion.
About the writer: Nikolay Stoyanov is an SEO expert who’s been working in the SEO industry since 2007. Nik is the founder of CBD Advertising Agency and helps CBD companies grow their organic traffic via marijuana SEO.
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