IV.

BY-PRODUCT PROFILE

Ethanol is a colorless liquid with characteristic odor and taste, commonly called grain alcohol or
simply alcohol. It can be used as a fuel when blended with gasoline or when in its original state. It can
also be used as a raw material in various industrial processes. Ethanol is made by fermenting almost any
material that contains starch. Grains such as corn and sorghum are good sources, but potatoes, sugarcane,
and other farm plants and wastes are also suitable.
A. Technical Specification

Product Name
Common Synonyms
Molecular Weight
Molecular Formula
Physical State
Color
Odor
Boiling Point
Melting Point
Specific Gravity
Volatility
Solubility

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Ethyl alcohol
Ethanol, Alcohol, Dehydrated Alcohol
46.07 g/mole
CH3CH2OH
Liquid
Colorless, Clear
Like wine or whiskey.
78.5C (173.3F)
-114.1C (-173.4F)
0.789 (Water = 1)
Not available
S oluble in water, methanol, diethyl ether, acetone.

B. Composition

C.Uses

Ethanol is widely used as a solvent. It is

relatively safe, and can be used to dissolve

Technical

many

organic

compounds

which

are

insoluble in water. It is used, for example,

Industrial

in many perfumes and cosmetics.

Ethanol is usually sold as industrial

methylated spirits with a small quantity of

methanol added.
It can be used as a fuel in its own right or in
mixtures with petrol (gasoline). "Gasohol"
is a petrol / ethanol mixture containing
about 10 - 20% ethanol.

D. Handling, Storage and Transport Information

Transport Information

DOT Classification: CLASS 3: Flammable

liquid.
Identification: Ethanol UNNA: 1170 PG: II
Special Provisions for Transport: Not
available.

PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN IN HANDLING AND STORAGE:

Remove ignition Sources, Do not smoke and
avoid sparks.

Handling

Ensure electrical continuity by bounding and

grounding all equipment.

Avoid the use of compressed air for filling,

discharging or handling operations.

Storage

Handle and open in a well-ventilated area.

Keep container in a cool, well-ventilated

area.

Keep container tightly closed and sealed

until ready for use.

Avoid all possible sources of ignition (spark

or flame).

Do not store above 23C (73.4F).

E. Safety and Disposal

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
Use personal protective equipment and self

-breathing apparatus with full face piece

Personal Precautions:

Environmental Precautions:

when cleaning the affected area.

Ventilate area of leak or spill

Keep unnecessary personnel from entering.

Prevent from contamination.

Contain and recover liquid when possible.

Stop leak and use of water spray to reduce

vapors.

Small Spill

WHEN RELEASED OR SPILLED:

Dilute with water and mop up the affected

area.
Keep away from any sources of ignition.

Absorb with dry sand or earth or any other

Large Spill

non-combustible material.

Prevent the entry of the liquid into the

sewers or confined areas.

DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS
Waste must be disposed of in accordance

Waste Disposal Procedure

with

local

regulations.

environmental

control