To clarify the discussion on alcohol, methanol, CH3OH, also known as
methyl alcohol and wood alcohol, is poisonous. Ethanol, C2H5OH, also
known as ethyl alcohol is what we drink. To make it undrinkable, other
liquids such as methanol are added. When it is so modified, it becomes
denatured alcohol (or methylated spirits) and this is what is used to
dissolve or dilute shellac. Isopropanol, or isopropyl alcohol, is
commonly referred to as rubbing alcohol and is totally different than
the previous two mentioned. It has the formula (CH3)2CHOH. The normal
rubbing alcohol available in drug stores has a high percentage of water
in it (ethanol has less water in it, but requires special treatment to
reduce the water below 5%). According to a physician friend, either
isopropanol or ethanol are used in antiseptic wipes and hand
sanitizers.
Tom Rosenbusch
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