Ethanol Overview:
Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol, is a volatile, colorless liquid with a distinctively sweet odor. It is the simplest type of alcohol and is commonly found in alcoholic beverages. Ethanol is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast or through chemical synthesis methods.
Key Characteristics:
- Light, volatile, colorless liquid
- Flammable with an alcoholic odor
- Historically derived from fermentation processes
Applications:
- Fuel Additive: Enhances fuel performance.
- Chemical Synthesis: Essential for producing various organic compounds.
- Beverage Production: Used as the primary intoxicating ingredient in alcoholic beverages.
- Solvent: Widely used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial processes.
- Disinfectant: Effective for sterilization and sanitation purposes.
Hazards:
- Highly flammable and volatile.
- Ingestion can lead to intoxication or alcohol poisoning.
- Prolonged exposure may cause respiratory issues.
- Flammable vapors pose fire and explosion risks.
