Ethanol 96%

Ethanol 96% is a colorless, flammable, and volatile liquid commonly used as a solvent, fuel, and disinfectant. Known as “anhydrous ethanol” due to its low water content, this nearly pure ethanol (96% ethanol, 4% water) is effective in various industrial and medical applications. This article explores the properties, benefits, and potential hazards of ethanol 96%, and highlights our company’s role in exporting and supplying this essential product.

• CAS Number: 64-17-5
• Chemical Formula: C₂H₆O
• Other Name: Ethyl alcohol

Characteristics of Ethanol 96%

Ethanol 96% is a clear, colorless liquid with a sweet, slightly pungent odor and a boiling point of 78.4°C. Its low water content enhances its solubility in water, making it a versatile solvent for various substances. It is also miscible with many organic solvents and has a high vapor pressure, making it an efficient fuel.

Benefits of Ethanol 96%

Ethanol 96% offers multiple benefits due to its versatility. It serves as a powerful solvent in numerous manufacturing processes, effectively dissolving various materials. As a renewable energy source derived from plant materials, ethanol 96% is sustainable and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. In healthcare, its strong disinfectant properties help prevent the spread of infections and illnesses. Additionally, ethanol 96% boosts combustion efficiency in engines, further lowering emissions.

Ethanol 96% is a versatile chemical widely used across various industries due to its solvent properties and effectiveness as a disinfectant and fuel additive. In the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and beverage industries, ethanol 96% serves as a crucial solvent for extracting flavors, fragrances, and active ingredients. As a fuel additive, it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhances engine performance. Its high ethanol concentration makes it an effective disinfectant for medical equipment, surfaces, and hands, providing protection against bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.

Expanded Uses of Ethanol 96%

1. Pharmaceuticals: Ethanol 96% is essential in the pharmaceutical industry, acting as a solvent for extracting active ingredients from plants and herbs. It’s also vital in formulating medicines, syrups, and tinctures, ensuring proper dissolution and distribution of active compounds.

2. Food and Beverage: Ethanol 96% plays a significant role in the food and beverage sector. It serves as a solvent for extracting natural flavors, and as a carrier and preservative in food products like extracts, essences, and concentrates. It is also the primary raw material for producing alcoholic beverages, including spirits, liquors, and wines.

3. Cosmetics and Personal Care: Ethanol 96% is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products as a solvent for dissolving fragrances, essential oils, and botanical extracts. It also enhances absorption in skincare products, making it a key ingredient in lotions, creams, perfumes, and colognes.

4. Industrial Cleaning: With its strong solvent properties, ethanol 96% is an effective cleaning agent in industrial settings. It is widely used in degreasers, solvents, and industrial cleaning solutions to remove oils, greases, and other contaminants from machinery and surfaces.

5. Laboratory and Scientific Research: Ethanol 96% is a crucial reagent, diluent, and solvent in laboratories, used for various analytical procedures, scientific experiments, and sample preparations. Its purity and reliability make it ideal for quality control and research.

6. Printing and Ink Industry: In the printing and ink industry, ethanol 96% is used as a solvent for dispersing pigments, dyes, and varnishes, ensuring quick evaporation during the printing process and accelerating drying times.

7. Renewable Fuels: As a biofuel, ethanol 96% is often blended with gasoline to create ethanol-blended fuels like E10 and E85. These blends help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve vehicle combustion efficiency.

Ethanol 96% is highly flammable and can ignite easily if exposed to heat, sparks, or flames. Inhalation or ingestion of ethanol 96% can lead to serious health issues, including dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Consumption of large amounts can result in alcohol poisoning, a potentially life-threatening condition. Ethanol 96% also poses environmental hazards, particularly to aquatic life at high concentrations.

Safety Precautions

 Handle ethanol 96% with care, using appropriate protective equipment such as gloves and goggles, and ensure proper ventilation in areas where it is used. Store in a cool, well-ventilated place away from sources of ignition. In case of skin or eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if necessary. For spills, contain and absorb with inert material, and prevent the chemical from entering waterways.

Environmental Considerations

 Ethanol 96% can be harmful to aquatic life if released in large quantities. Proper disposal and containment procedures should be followed to minimize environmental impact.

In conclusion, while ethanol 96% is a versatile and valuable chemical in various industries, its flammability and potential health and environmental risks necessitate careful handling and adherence to safety protocols.