Denatured Alcohol vs. Methylated Spirits

Attribute	Denatured Alcohol	Methylated Spirits
Composition	Alcohol mixed with additives to make it undrinkable	Alcohol mixed with methanol and other additives
Uses	Industrial purposes, cleaning, and fuel	Similar to denatured alcohol, but also used for heating and cooking
Color	Clear	Usually dyed purple or blue
Odor	Strong alcohol smell	Strong and unpleasant odor due to additives
Flammability	Highly flammable	Highly flammable

Introduction

Denatured alcohol and methylated spirits are two commonly used solvents that are often confused with each other due to their similar properties. While both substances are used for various purposes, they have distinct differences that make them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will compare the attributes of denatured alcohol and methylated spirits to help you understand their unique characteristics.

Composition

Denatured alcohol is a type of ethanol that has been rendered undrinkable by adding chemicals such as methanol or isopropanol. This process is done to prevent people from consuming the alcohol for recreational purposes. On the other hand, methylated spirits, also known as denatured alcohol, is ethanol that has been mixed with a small amount of methanol and other additives to make it toxic and undrinkable. Both denatured alcohol and methylated spirits are clear, colorless liquids with a strong odor.

Uses

Denatured alcohol is commonly used as a solvent in various industries, including paint manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and cleaning products. It is also used as a fuel for alcohol burners and camping stoves. Methylated spirits, on the other hand, is primarily used as a fuel for alcohol burners, camping stoves, and lamps. It is also used as a solvent for cleaning and degreasing surfaces. Both denatured alcohol and methylated spirits are flammable and should be handled with care.

Flammability

Denatured alcohol and methylated spirits are highly flammable liquids that should be stored and handled with caution. Both substances have a low flash point, which means they can easily ignite when exposed to heat or an open flame. It is important to keep denatured alcohol and methylated spirits away from sources of ignition and to use them in well-ventilated areas to prevent the risk of fire or explosion.

Toxicity

Denatured alcohol and methylated spirits are toxic substances that can cause harm if ingested or inhaled. The additives used to denature the alcohol, such as methanol, can be harmful to human health if consumed. Ingesting denatured alcohol or methylated spirits can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and even death in severe cases. It is important to handle these substances with care and to use them in well-ventilated areas to minimize the risk of exposure.

Availability

Denatured alcohol is widely available in hardware stores, home improvement centers, and online retailers. It is sold in various quantities, ranging from small bottles to large drums. Methylated spirits, on the other hand, is less commonly available in some regions due to restrictions on the sale of alcohol-based products. However, it can still be purchased from specialty stores, camping supply stores, and online retailers.

Cost

Denatured alcohol is generally more expensive than methylated spirits due to the additional processing required to denature the alcohol. The cost of denatured alcohol can vary depending on the purity of the ethanol used and the additives included in the formulation. Methylated spirits, on the other hand, is a more affordable option for those looking for a cost-effective solvent or fuel. The price of methylated spirits is typically lower than that of denatured alcohol, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, denatured alcohol and methylated spirits are two similar yet distinct substances that are commonly used for various purposes. While both substances are flammable and toxic, they have different compositions, uses, availability, and costs. Denatured alcohol is often used as a solvent in industries such as paint manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, while methylated spirits are primarily used as a fuel for camping stoves and lamps. Understanding the differences between denatured alcohol and methylated spirits can help you choose the right solvent for your specific needs.