Ethanol
[CAS# 64-17-5]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Synthetic anti-infective drugs >> Disinfectant antiseptic
• Name: Ethanol
• Synonyms: Ethyl alcohol
• Molecular Formula: C₂H₆O
• Molecular Weight: 46.07
• CAS Registry Number: 64-17-5
• EC Number: 200-578-6
• SMILES: CCO

Properties

• Water solubility: miscible
• Density: 0.8±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*, 0.7893 g/mL
• Melting point: -130 °C
• Index of Refraction: 1.354, Calc.^*, 1.361
• Boiling Point: 72.6±3.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 78 °C
• Flash Point: 8.9±0.0 °C, Calc.^*, 14 °C

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H225-H319
• Safety Statements: P210-P233-P240-P241-P242-P243-P264+P265-P280-P303+P361+P353-P305+P351+P338-P337+P317-P370+P378-P403+P235-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	2	H225
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	2	H371
Carcinogenicity	Carc.	1B	H350
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	1	H370
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	1	H372
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	2	H361
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H336
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1A	H360
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Substances or mixtures corrosive to metals	Met. Corr.	1	H290
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H311
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	1	H410
Carcinogenicity	Carc.	1A	H350
Germ cell mutagenicity	Muta.	1B	H340
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	3	H226
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H331
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	1	H373
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	3	H412
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318

• Transport Information: UN 1170; UN 1986; UN 1987

Discovery and Applications

Ethanol, commonly known as ethyl alcohol, is a colorless, volatile liquid with the molecular formula C2H5OH. It is one of the simplest alcohols and is widely used in various applications, including as a solvent, fuel, and recreational beverage. Ethanol has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations, where it was first produced through fermentation processes.

The discovery of ethanol can be traced back thousands of years to the earliest practices of fermentation. The process involves the conversion of sugars into alcohol by yeast. Archaeological evidence suggests that ancient Egyptians, Sumerians, and Chinese produced alcoholic beverages as early as 7000 to 5000 BCE. The chemical structure of ethanol was first elucidated in the early 19th century when chemists began to understand the molecular composition of organic compounds. The synthesis of ethanol from ethylene and water through hydration reactions was achieved in the late 19th century, further establishing ethanol as a significant chemical compound in both industry and academia.

Ethanol is primarily produced through two methods: fermentation and industrial synthesis. In fermentation, yeast converts carbohydrates from plant materials such as sugarcane, corn, or grains into ethanol and carbon dioxide. This process is widely used in the production of alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, and spirits. On the other hand, the industrial synthesis of ethanol involves the hydration of ethylene, derived from petrochemical sources, which is a more efficient method for large-scale production.

Ethanol has numerous applications across various industries. One of its most prominent uses is in the beverage industry, where it serves as the main ingredient in alcoholic drinks. The recreational consumption of ethanol-containing beverages has cultural and social significance worldwide, with numerous regulations governing their production and sale.

In the industrial sector, ethanol is widely used as a solvent in the formulation of paints, varnishes, and coatings. Its ability to dissolve a wide range of polar and nonpolar substances makes it an essential component in many formulations. Ethanol is also utilized as a raw material in the synthesis of various chemicals, including acetic acid, ethyl acetate, and various pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, it serves as an important ingredient in personal care products, including perfumes and lotions, where it acts as a solvent and antimicrobial agent.

Another significant application of ethanol is as a fuel additive and alternative fuel source. Ethanol can be blended with gasoline to create a fuel that reduces carbon emissions and enhances octane ratings. This blending is often referred to as "gasohol," which typically contains 10% ethanol. In some countries, ethanol is used in higher concentrations, such as E85, which contains 85% ethanol. The use of ethanol as a renewable energy source has gained traction in recent years, contributing to efforts aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Ethanol also has important applications in medicine and healthcare. It is commonly used as an antiseptic for disinfecting skin and surfaces due to its ability to kill bacteria and viruses. Ethanol is also utilized in laboratories for preserving biological specimens and as a solvent in various biochemical assays.

Despite its widespread use, safety considerations are crucial when handling ethanol. It is flammable and can be toxic in high concentrations or with prolonged exposure. Regulatory agencies have established guidelines for safe handling, storage, and use to minimize health risks associated with ethanol.

In summary, ethanol is a versatile chemical compound with a rich history of discovery and a broad range of applications in the beverage, industrial, energy, and healthcare sectors. Its significance continues to grow as research advances and societal needs evolve, making it an enduring subject of interest in both scientific and commercial contexts.

References

1979. Synthesis of phosphatidyl-dCMP in permeabilized normal human lymphocytes. Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, 25(1).
DOI: 10.1007/bf00220734

2006. Determination of resorcylic acid lactones in biological samples by GC-MS. Discrimination between illegal use and contamination with fusarium toxins. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, 384(2).
DOI: 10.1007/s00216-005-0274-4