Denatured alcohol and isopropyl alcohol are commonly used alcohols that each boast a wide variety of applications. As it turns out, they are not the same chemical. However, they do share a number of characteristics. This blog post will discuss the topic of denatured alcohol vs isopropyl alcohol and compare and contrast these two substances. Then, see where you can find these products available right here on our site!

If you already know what you want, you can shop here!

Denatured Alcohol vs Isopropyl Alcohol: Definitions 

Before diving into the comparison between denatured alcohol and isopropyl alcohol, let’s first define each one. Denatured alcohol is essentially ethanol that has been altered by adding toxic and unpleasant-tasting substances to make it unsuitable for drinking. These additives can include methanol, acetone, or other chemicals, which ensure that the alcohol cannot be consumed safely.

On the other hand, Isopropyl Alcohol is a single, pure type of alcohol with the chemical formula C3H8O. Unlike denatured alcohol, it is not a mixture but a distinct compound commonly used for its antiseptic properties and as a solvent in various applications.

Denatured Alcohol vs Isopropyl Alcohol: Differences  

What are the differences between denatured alcohol vs. isopropyl alcohol? There are several characteristics that distinguish these alcohols from each other, such as: 

• Composition 

As mentioned above, isopropyl alcohol consists of just one substance: the alcohol with the chemical formula C3H8O. Denatured alcohol is a mixture of ethanol (the alcohol with the formula C2H6O), usually methanol at a 5%-10% concentration, as well as a host of other potential additives such as acetone, benzene, and methyl ethyl ketone. Isopropyl alcohol is actually another possible additive, so denatured alcohol sometimes contains isopropyl alcohol as one of its ingredients!  

• Toxicity 

Denatured alcohol should not be used as an antiseptic on skin due to its toxicity. Isopropyl alcohol, on the other hand, is a commonly used antiseptic, as its toxicity is only an issue when highly-concentrated isopropyl alcohol is used.   

• Preservation 

Denatured alcohol is a great option for preserving laboratory samples because the ethanol prevents water from entering the sample. Isopropyl alcohol, however, is only an effective preservative at a concentration of 90%, which is not always easy to acquire.   

Denatured Alcohol vs Isopropyl Alcohol: Similarities  

When considering the question of denatured alcohol vs. isopropyl alcohol, it is also important to look at their similarities. Some similarities between these two alcohols include: 

• Consumption 

Both denatured alcohol and isopropyl alcohol are unsafe for consumption. 

• Uses 

One of the largest similarities between denatured and isopropyl alcohol is their potential uses. These two chemicals possess several of the same functions, such as:   

• Solvent  

• Cleansing agent  

• Cosmetics ingredient  

• Stain remover  

Shop Denatured Alcohol and Isopropyl Alcohol Online! 

If you’ve been exploring the differences between denatured alcohol and isopropyl alcohol and are trying to determine which one is best suited for your needs, we hope this blog post has been informative. Looking to buy these products?

Ecolink offers a wide range of cleaning solutions, including both denatured alcohol and isopropyl alcohol:

• Denatured Alcohol – 55 Gallon Drum
• 99% Isopropyl Alcohol – 55 Gallon Drum
• 99% Isopropyl Alcohol – 5 Gallon Pail
• 70/30 Isopropyl Alcohol – 55 Gallon Drum

Additionally, if you have any further questions about denatured alcohol vs. isopropyl alcohol, our team is here to assist you. We offer discounts on 4 or more drums! Feel free to reach out to us for more information!

Related Information

• Isopropyl Alcohol As An Electronics Cleaner
• Isopropyl Alcohol As A Solvent
• Medical Grade Alcohol – 99% IPA – Purchase in Bulk