Denatured Alcohol

Denatured Alcohol is also known as Methylated Spirits owing to the fact that traditionally 10% Methanol was added to Ethanol in order to make it poisonous and undrinkable. Other additives are also used to make Denatured Alcohol unpalatable; these include Methyl Ethyl Ketone, Acetone and Isopropyl Alcohol.

Denatured Alcohol is often coloured purple or blue to deter people from drinking it and to help make it recognisable. Denatured Alcohol is used as a solvent. It is used in camping stoves and burners and by back-packers. It is easy to transport, inexpensive and can be extinguished with water.

Denatured Alcohol has a variety of other uses. It is used to remove ink and stains from clothes and upholstery. It is used as a germicide and fungicide, in the treatment of skin and on coldsores. It is also used to disinfect the skin prior to surgery, when it is sometimes referred to as Rubbing Alcohol. It is used in the manufacture of certain pharmaceuticals.

As Denatured Alcohol is a mild and gentle solvent, it is ideal for cleaning delicate items such as glassware and for cleaning windows and mirrors. It can be used for cleaning paint brushes and palette knives. Denatured Alcohol can be used to clean kitchen surfaces such as tiled floors and kitchen appliances where it acts as a de-greasing agent.

Denatured Alcohol is a poisonous substance and should not be swallowed. Ingestion of Denatured Alcohol can be fatal. Denatured Alcohol is highly Toxic and should be stored in sealed containers and kept in a cool, dry, dark place, away from children and animals. Denatured Alcohol is highly flammable and should be stored away from sources of heat, ignition, sparks and combustible materials.

Denatured Alcohol is Harmful if absorbed through the skin and can cause irritation to skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Denatured Alcohol may affect the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract and reproductive system. Accidental splashes on skin should be rinsed thoroughly with soap and water. Keep away from eyes and wear approved eye protection when working with Denatured Alcohol. Accidental eye contact can cause irritation and redness. Use only in a well ventilated area and do not inhale the fumes which may cause damage to the central nervous system. When handling large quantities, always use fume extraction or a personal respirator.