Methylated spirits is a widely available industrial product that is primarily used as a solvent and fuel. This substance, often recognizable by its distinctive purple or blue color, is a highly regulated and toxic form of industrial alcohol. Understanding what methylated spirits is, how it is used, and the necessary safety measures is important for anyone handling the product.
Chemical Composition and Common Names
Methylated spirits is composed of highly concentrated ethanol, the same type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages, often at 90% concentration or more. To this base, chemical additives known as denaturants are introduced to alter the substance’s properties.
The most common denaturing agent is methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, which is the source of the term “methylated spirits.” Methanol is often included in a concentration of about 10%. Other additives may include isopropyl alcohol, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, or pyridine, which are added to make the product taste and smell unpleasant. This mixture is also widely referred to as denatured alcohol, or colloquially as “metho” or “meths” in countries like Australia and the United Kingdom.
Why the Spirit is Denatured
The process of denaturing the ethanol is a deliberate regulatory and financial strategy. Pure ethanol is subject to high excise taxes in most countries because it is fit for human consumption as an alcoholic beverage. By adding denaturants, the alcohol is rendered toxic, repugnant, and unfit for drinking, which exempts it from these taxes. This reduction in taxation allows the product to be sold at a much lower cost for industrial and household applications.
The primary purpose of the added methanol and other substances is to prevent people from consuming the cheap, industrial alcohol as a beverage. The government-mandated additives ensure that the substance is unpalatable, and in the case of methanol, toxic. The denaturing process is a public policy compromise designed to make an effective solvent and fuel affordable for non-beverage uses while discouraging dangerous consumption.
Practical Applications
Methylated spirits is valued for its versatility in various industrial and domestic settings, primarily due to its properties as a solvent and its clean-burning nature. One of its main applications is as a fuel source, particularly for portable camping stoves, spirit burners, and small heaters. It is a popular fuel choice because it burns cleanly without producing soot.
As a solvent, methylated spirits is effective for thinning specific types of paints, lacquers, and varnishes, and is commonly used to clean paint brushes after use. It is also an excellent solvent for shellac, a natural resin used in woodworking and furniture restoration.
The product is frequently utilized as a multipurpose household cleaner and degreaser. Its rapid evaporation rate and ability to dissolve grease make it suitable for cleaning glass, mirrors, and stainless steel without leaving streaks. It can also be used to remove tough stains, such as ink or lipstick, from certain surfaces and fabrics, and acts as a disinfectant to kill germs on hard surfaces.
Essential Safety Precautions
Due to the presence of toxic denaturants like methanol, methylated spirits is dangerous if ingested, potentially causing blindness, brain damage, or death. It should never be mistaken for or used as drinking alcohol, and containers must be stored securely away from children and pets.
The substance is also classified as a highly flammable liquid and vapor, necessitating strict handling protocols. It must be kept away from all sources of ignition, including heat, sparks, and open flames. When using the product, good ventilation is required to prevent the buildup of flammable or irritating vapors.
To prevent skin absorption or eye irritation, users should wear protective equipment, such as solvent-resistant gloves and safety goggles. If skin contact occurs, the affected area should be rinsed with soap and water. If the substance gets into the eyes, they must be flushed with water for several minutes. In the event of ingestion or severe symptoms from inhalation, immediate medical attention is required.