Methylated Spirit

Methylated Spirit, also known as denatured alcohol, refers to ethanol that has been modified with additives to render it toxic, discouraging its consumption for recreational purposes. Due to the wide range of industrial applications for denatured alcohol, various additives and denaturing methods have been utilized. Historically, the primary additive has been 10% methanol, leading to the term "methylated spirits." Other common additives include isopropyl alcohol (IPA), acetone, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), and methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK).

Synonyms
Denatured alcohol, SDA, Specially denatured alcohol
Chemical Formula
C2H6O
CAS Number
64-17-5

Characteristics

Molar Weight
32.04 g/mol
Melting Point
-117.3 °C
Boiling Point
78.5 °C
Flash Point
13 °C
Density
0.810
Forms
Liquid

Uses and Applications

Key applications

  • Disinfectant
  • Ink, toner and colourant
  • Cleaning products
  • Fuel additive
  • Pharmaceuticals