Methylated Spirit, also known as denatured alcohol, is a clear, colorless liquid primarily composed of ethanol with added chemicals to make it undrinkable. It is widely used for various applications due to its solvent properties and effectiveness as a cleaning agent.
Key Uses
Methylated Spirit is versatile and can be used for:
- Cleaning Agent: Effective for cleaning glass, metal, and plastic surfaces. It can dissolve grease, oil, and adhesive residues.
- Solvent: Commonly used in the paint industry to thin paints and clean paintbrushes.
- Fuel: Suitable for use in camping stoves and fondue burners.
- Disinfectant: Can be used to disinfect hard surfaces due to its antibacterial properties.
- Woodworking: Used as a shellac thinner and for cleaning woodworking tools.
- Stain Remover: Effective in removing ink stains and other stubborn marks from fabrics and surfaces.
Safety Precautions
- Toxicity: Methylated spirit contains methanol, which is highly toxic. Ingestion can lead to serious health issues, including blindness or death. It should never be consumed.
- Flammability: The product is highly flammable; it should be kept away from open flames and stored in a cool, well-ventilated area.
- Skin Contact: Avoid contact with skin; it may cause irritation. Use gloves when handling the product.
- Ventilation: Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhaling vapors, which can be harmful.
Storage
Store methylated spirit in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Keep it away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition.