The low-down
on denaturants
The low-down on denaturants
Denaturants are substances added to ethanol to render them undrinkable or unpalatable for human consumption. The purpose of adding denaturants to alcohol is to deter people from consuming it for recreational or non-industrial purposes. When alcohol is denatured, it becomes unsafe and unfit for human consumption, and it is often exempt from the high taxes and regulations that apply to food-grade alcohol.
When using denatured alcohol for industrial or other approved purposes, it is crucial to follow safety guidelines and regulations to minimise risks and ensure proper handling and disposal.
Types of Denaturants
Isopropyl (IPA)
Isopropyl (IPA), also known as rubbing alcohol is a colourless, flammable chemical compound with a distinctive odour commonly used as a solvent, disinfectant and cleaning agent.
Uses
Solvent: used to dissolve a wide range of substances, including oils, resins, gums, waxes, and various organic compounds. And it’s often used in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products.
Disinfectant: used as a disinfectant for surfaces, skin, and medical instruments. It is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal, making it effective in killing a broad spectrum of microorganisms.
Cleaning agent: used as a cleaning agent for electronic components, such as circuit boards and connectors, due to its ability to evaporate quickly without leaving residue.
Pesticides: used as a solvent and carrier in pesticide formulations. It helps dissolve active ingredients, aids in even distribution, enhances penetration, and accelerates drying.
Looking for ethanol denatured with IPA and need a specific blend?
Enterprise Ethanol is here to help you with the right formulation. Get in touch.
Tertiary butyl alcohol (TBA)
Tertiary butyl alcohol (TBA) is a tertiary alcohol that is a colourless liquid with a distinct odour and is commonly used in various industrial applications.
Uses
Paint remover: used as a powerful solvent in paint removers, effectively breaking down paint coatings for easy removal without harming underlying surfaces.
Laboratory applications: used as a solvent for various chemical processes and reactions.
Fuel additive: used as an additive in fuel to improve octane levels. It can contribute to the production of oxygenated fuels, which can enhance combustion efficiency in engines.
Need a specific ethanol blend with TBA? We’re here to help, get in touch.
Bitrex
Bitrex, also known as denatonium benzoate, is a bittering agent that is added to various products to make them unpalatable and discourage ingestion. Known as one of the most bitter substances that even in small amounts it imparts an intensely bitter taste that is difficult to mask. It is often used as a safety measure to prevent accidental ingestion of harmful substances, particularly in products that may be appealing to children or pets.
Uses
Cleaning products: an effective solvent in various cleaning solutions such as window cleaners, surface disinfectants, and degreasers.
Pharmaceuticals: used in certain pharmaceuticals, particularly medications that could be harmful if ingested in large quantities.
Personal care products: used in some personal care products such as perfume, shampoos, soaps, and other skin care products.
Pet products: added to certain pet products such as pet sprays to deter pets from licking or chewing on surfaces treated with these products.
Need Bitrex added as a denaturant?
Get in touch and we’ll help you with a tailored ethanol blend.
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
MEK is a volatile, flammable liquid with a sweet, sharp odor. Its effectiveness as a solvent is due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, including resins, adhesives, and coatings.
Uses
Paints and Coatings: extensively used as a solvent in the formulation of paints, coatings, and inks. It helps in achieving the desired consistency and enhances the drying time, improving the overall finish of the product.
Adhesives and Sealants: commonly used as a solvent in adhesives and sealants. It aids in the dissolution of resins and polymers, contributing to the adhesive properties and performance of the final product.
Cleaning and Degreasing: effective in cleaning and degreasing applications due to its ability to dissolve oils, greases, and waxes. It is used in industrial cleaning products, automotive care products, and maintenance operations.
Looking for ethanol denatured with MEK and need a specific blend?
Enterprise Ethanol is here to help you. Get in touch.
Ethyl Acetate
Ethyl acetate is a colourless liquid with a sweet, fruity odour. It is an organic compound with the chemical formula that is commonly used as a solvent in various applications and is also found naturally in certain fruits.
Uses
Printing Inks: used as a solvent in the production of printing inks. It helps dissolve pigments and other components ensuring proper viscosity and colour dispersion.
Paint and coatings: used as a solvent in the production of paints, varnishes, lacquers, and other coatings. It helps dissolve and disperse the components contributing to the formulation of these products.
Essential oil extraction: used in the extraction of essential oils from plants and helps isolate aromatic compounds. Its low boiling point allows for easy evaporation leaving behind the concentrated essential oil.
Cleaners and Degreasers: used in some industrial cleaners and degreasers due to its effective solvent properties. It helps remove oils, grease, and other contaminants.
Need a specific ethanol blend with Ethyl Acetate? We’re here to help, get in touch.
Looking for Trade Specific Denatured
Alcohol?
With our blend-as-a-service offering, we’ll deliver the right denaturant
mix fit for purpose. Complete the form to discuss your bespoke needs.
Looking to create a
tailored ethanol blend?
With our blend-as-a-service offering, we’ll deliver the right denaturant
mix fit for purpose. Complete the form to discuss your bespoke needs.