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What is Denatured Alcohol?

Answer –  Alcohol adulterated with additives is called denatured alcohol.

Explanation: 

Also called methylated spirits, denatured alcohol is unfit for human consumption. This alcohol can be identified by its appearance (dyed) or taste (bitter). Some common denaturing agents or additives used include methanol (CH3OH), isopropyl alcohol (C3H8O), denatonium benzoate, benzene (C6H6), pyridine, and methyl ethyl ketone. The percentage of denaturants added to make alcohol denatured can vary depending on regional regulations and intended use. However, typical formulations contain approximately 5% to 50% denaturants by volume, with the remainder being ethanol. The composition of denatured alcohol is tightly defined by government regulations in countries that tax alcoholic beverages.

Denatured alcohol has several uses: it dissolves and spreads ingredients in paints, varnishes, and dyes during manufacturing. It’s also used as a fuel in alcohol burners and camping stoves. As a cleaning agent, it removes dirt, grease, and stains from surfaces. Additionally, it is commonly used in the medical industry in the form of hand sanitizers and medical disinfectants because of its germ-killing properties.


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