denatured alcohol

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A scientist uses denatured alcohol to clean laboratory equipment.

Definition

Noun:
- Ethyl alcohol rendered unfit for human consumption: Denatured alcohol is ethanol (ethyl alcohol) that has been intentionally adulterated with one or more chemical additives (denaturants) to make it poisonous, extremely bad-tasting, foul-smelling, or nauseating. This process is done to exempt it from regulations and taxes that apply to potable alcohol, while preserving its utility for industrial and commercial applications.

Usage

Denatured alcohol is used as a solvent, fuel, or cleaning agent. It is not for drinking.
It is commonly found in products like shellacs, stains, paint thinners, camping stoves, and disinfectants.

Examples

Noun:
- Use denatured alcohol to clean the glass surface before applying the adhesive.
- The laboratory uses denatured alcohol as a solvent for various chemical preparations.
- Never consume denatured alcohol; it is toxic and can cause blindness or death.

Advanced Usage

"Denatured" as a concept: The term "denatured" can be applied to other substances (e.g., denatured protein) where the natural form is altered, typically to destroy its original function or properties. In the context of alcohol, it specifically refers to making it non-potable.
Regulatory context: The specific denaturants used (like methanol, isopropanol, or bitterants) are often mandated by government regulations (e.g., the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) to prevent its diversion for consumption.

Variants and Related Words

Denaturant (noun): A substance added to ethanol to make it denatured alcohol.
Denature (verb): To modify the natural qualities of a substance.
Methylated spirits: A common British term for denatured alcohol, often denatured with methanol.
Ethanol / Ethyl alcohol (noun): The pure, potable form of alcohol before denaturing.

Synonyms

Related Phrases / Compounds

Denatured alcohol stove: A portable stove designed to burn denatured alcohol as fuel.
Denatured alcohol fuel: Denatured alcohol marketed specifically for use as a combustible fuel.

A scientist uses denatured alcohol to clean laboratory equipment.

Noun