Commonly used methylated spirits is a general-purpose alcohol which is not fit for drinking. This is because approximately 10% methanol has been added to it, along with additives such as pyridine, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and methyl isobutyl ketone. The methanol is where the name ‘methylated spirits’ comes from.
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Introduction to Methylated Spirits
Also called denatured alcohol, methylated spirits have these chemicals added to it in order to discourage human consumption by making it bad-tasting, foul-smelling, and nauseating. These chemical additives are also called ‘denaturants’ because they make ethanol undrinkable.
The addition of methanol and pyridine makes ethanol solution denatured, but it does not change the chemical or molecular structure. It is different from the denaturation of proteins in biochemistry wherein the structure of the substance is altered.
What makes denatured alcohol poisonous is the addition of methanol and other substances. Denatured alcohol can cause blindness, brain damage, or even death if consumed. Blue or pink dye is sometimes added to methylated spirits to make it easily identifiable.
Key Takeaways
Methylated spirits have at least 10% methanol and other additives
Additives include isopropyl alcohol, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and methyl isobutyl ketone
Methylated spirits is otherwise known as denatured alcohol
It can be used as a cleaning agent, solvent, fuel, laboratory specimen preservative, and insecticide
Methylated spirits should be handled with care because it releases highly flammable vapours
Making methanol undrinkable was to avoid the tax intended for drinkable alcoholic beverages and spirits
What Are Methylated Spirits?
Methylated spirits, otherwise known as denatured alcohol, is basically a methanol solution that contains additives to make it undrinkable.
Small amounts of pyridine, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and methyl isobutyl ketone are added to make it not only unpalatable, but also toxic.
The main purpose of doing this was to avoid the taxes levied on drinkable alcoholic beverages.
Common Uses of Methylated Spirits
Methylated spirits have a wide range of uses, but is most commonly known for its use as a solvent and as a fuel for burners and camping stoves.
Other uses of methylated spirits include:
- Hard-surface cleaning agent – methylated spirits have strong anti-bacterial properties, making it ideal for cleaning wood, glass and plastic, as well as dissolving grease and stains such as ballpoint pen and lipstick
- A natural preservative for cosmetics – reducing spoil and the risk of infection
- Preserving specimens for use in scientific processes
- Insecticide – methylated spirits will kill insects like mealybugs without harming your plants
Safety Precautions When Handling Methylated Spirits
Methylated spirits releases highly flammable vapours, so you should ensure that you are using it in a well-ventilated area. If it’s accidentally spilled, methylated spirits should be cleaned up immediately to prevent the vapours from being released.
Make sure that the cap is tightly sealed, and the bottle is stored away from open flames and the reach of children.
Risks & Proper Usage
Denatured alcohol is purposely made toxic to drink. That means it should never be used as a substitute for alcoholic drinks.
It should be stored in proper containers with labels and kept out of reach of children. There is always the risk of accidental poisoning.
Another risk is fire, since methylated spirits is highly flammable. While it can be used as a solvent or cleaning agent, proper caution should be taken. Any piece of cotton or cloth soaked in denatured alcohol for cleaning purposes must be properly disposed of or thoroughly rinsed.
What Are Industrial Methylated Spirits?
Industrial methylated spirits were originally created to avoid paying the taxes due on alcohol. If an alcohol cannot be consumed, it is exempt from alcohol tax. Denaturing alcohol gives it a legitimate use, as well as enabling the manufacture of cheap ethanol for industrial use.
The difference between methylated spirits for personal use and industrial methylated spirits is its purity or grading. Industrial methylated spirits are pure enough for industrial use in things like printing inks, detergents and dyes. It is mainly used as a cleaning agent or thinning solvent in industries.
In order to buy industrial methylated spirits of high purity grading, you must register your interest with HM Revenue and Customs.
Where to Buy Methylated Spirits in the UK
You can buy methylated spirits for personal use anywhere from your local hardware store or supermarket to Amazon.
If you are looking for industrial grade methylated spirits in anything from small batches to 1000L IBCs, you can buy online from ReAgent. We have been supplying various industries with methylated spirits for almost 50 years. If you’re unsure exactly what you need, just call us to discuss your requirements.
Conclusion
Methylated spirits, also called denatured alcohol, is purposely made undrinkable by adding toxic substances in order to avoid alcoholic beverages taxation. It has a wide range of applications in the households, laboratories, and industries, mainly as a solvent, fuel, cleaning agent, and preservative. There are risks associated with using methylated spirits, such as poisoning and fire. It must be properly stored and used with caution.
