Alcohols

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Methanol

Methanol, also known as wood alcohol, is the simplest alcohol with the chemical formula CH3OH. It is a light, volatile, colorless, and flammable liquid with a distinctive odor. Methanol is commonly used as an industrial solvent, antifreeze, and fuel. Due to its toxicity, methanol ingestion can result in blindness or death. It is also used as a feedstock in the production of chemicals like formaldehyde and acetic acid.

Ethanol

Ethanol is used in many products including food, cosmetics, disinfectants, and solvents.

In alcoholic beverages, ethanol content is measured by “proof”, which is defined as twice the percentage of ethanol content by volume. Since it is a psychoactive drug as well as a central nervous system depressant, the sale and distribution of ethanol is heavily regulated.

In cosmetic products, it is frequently used to extract essential oils or active ingredients. Its low boiling point also makes it popular for use in extraction, because it can dissolve both polar and nonpolar compounds and then evaporate, leaving the product.

Ethanol is also frequently used as a disinfectant in products like hand sanitizer and mouthwash. This is because it can dissolve the lipid bilayer of microorganisms and denature proteins. It can also dehydrate a cell, causing cell death.

Ethanol is also used in product manufacturing as a solvent to help dissolve chemicals or as a reagent as part of a synthesis.

Ethanol purity can be determined through GC analysis.

Isopropanol
Isopropanol, also known as isopropyl ethanol or rubbing ethanol, has the chemical formula C3H8O. It is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong odor. Isopropanol is widely used as a disinfectant, solvent, and cleaning agent in both industrial and household settings. Its quick evaporation rate makes it ideal for cleaning electronics and other delicate equipment. Despite its widespread use, ingestion of isopropanol can be toxic.

Consumer products that commonly contain alcohols

  • Hand sanitizers
  • Perfumes/Colognes
  • Aftershaves
  • Mouthwashes
  • Hair sprays

Instruments used to detect, measure, and analyze alcohols in consumer products

Testing for alcohols with Microchem

Microchem tests personal care products, OTC drugs, and dietary supplements for the strength, purity, and identity of alcohols. Contact the lab today for a free consultation or quote.

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Alcohols

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