Different Types of Alcohol and Their Uses
Date Posted:22 November 2021
Isopropyl Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol, also known as isopropanol, 2-propanol, or rubbing alcohol, is commonly used by physicians, who rub the poisonous substance onto surfaces, tools, and human bodies to cool and disinfect them.
Rubbing alcohol, which is made by combining water and propylene, is effective for sterilisation. Its high evaporation rate makes it a popular choice for cleaning electronics, though it can also be found in household cleaning products. Isopropyl alcohol can also be found in cosmetics such as lotions. C3H8O is the chemical formula for this type of alcohol.
Isopropyl alcohol, like other more dangerous types of alcohol, frequently contains bittering agents that discourage people from drinking it.
Methyl Alcohol
Methyl alcohol, also known as methanol and wood alcohol, is primarily used as an industrial solvent. Paint removers and photocopier developers, for example, make use of it. People with knowledge and experience can also use methyl alcohol to create other chemicals. Formaldehyde is produced as a byproduct of methanol degradation; some industries use this byproduct to manufacture everything from plastics to explosives. Because of its high freezing point of -143.68 degrees Fahrenheit, it can also be used to fuel internal combustion engines and keep other fuels from freezing.
Ethyl Alcohol
Ethyl alcohol, also known as grain alcohol, is consumed in beverages by people, mostly adults. People typically consume ethyl alcohol in a diluted concentration — the concentration level is known as the proof of the alcoholic beverage — to enhance its flavor. The ability of ethyl alcohol to alter mood and behavior is well known. Brewers and distillers typically make it from grains or other plant material with a high sugar content. Although the liver can usually filter ethyl alcohol out of the human body, ethyl alcohol is still toxic when consumed faster than the liver can metabolise it. Ethyl alcohol, like methyl alcohol, is used as an industrial solvent and as a fuel additive.
Types of Alcohol for Disinfection
Alcohols that are effective at killing germs and are used in healthcare as disinfectants and antiseptics include ethyl and isopropyl alcohol. According to research, both alcohols are most effective at killing germs when diluted with water to about 70%.
Which alcohol-based hand sanitiser is more effective?
The CDC suggests using a hand sanitiser that contains at least 60% ethyl or isopropanol alcohol and avoiding products that contain less than 60%. Bacteria, viruses, and other germs that can make you sick can be killed by either type of alcohol.
Ethyl alcohol is effective at killing a wide variety of viruses, but not hepatitis A or poliovirus.
Isopropyl alcohol is less effective against a type of virus known as nonenveloped viruses, but it is effective against enveloped viruses.
The virus responsible for COVID-19 is an enveloped virus. Both types of alcohol will kill it, but ethyl may be more effective.
Bottom Line
Disinfectants and antiseptics such as ethyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol are commonly used. When used in concentrations greater than 60%, both alcohols are effective at killing germs, but there is some evidence that ethyl alcohol is less harmful to your skin.
Drinking products containing either type of alcohol that are not intended for human consumption is extremely dangerous. If your child consumes hand sanitiser, seek immediate medical attention.
Comments (1)
Good to know!
By: Mike C on 11 December 2023Really glad to find this! I work in a pharmacy and get asked this question occasionally. I'll have a better answer now. Haha Thanks
