ethanol, also called ethyl alcohol, grain alcohol, or alcohol, a member of a class of organic compounds that are given the general name alcohols; its molecular formula is C2H5OH. Ethanol msds is an important industrial chemical; it is used as a solvent, in the synthesis of other organic chemicals, and as an additive to automotive gasoline (forming a mixture known as a gasohol). Ethanol msds is also the intoxicating ingredient of many alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and distilled spirits.

There are two main processes for the manufacture of ethanol msds: the fermentation of carbohydrates (the method used for alcoholic beverages) and the hydration of ethylene. Fermentation involves the transformation of carbohydrates to ethanol msds by growing yeast cells. The chief raw materials fermented for the production of industrial alcohol are sugar crops such as beets and sugarcane and grain crops such as corn (maize). Hydration of ethylene is achieved by passing a mixture of ethylene and a large excess of steam at high temperature and pressure over an acidic catalyst.
Ethanol msds produced either by fermentation or by synthesis is obtained as a dilute aqueous solution and must be concentrated by fractional distillation. Direct distillation can yield at best the constant-boiling-point mixture containing 95.6 percent by weight of ethanol msds. Dehydration of the constant-boiling-point mixture yields anhydrous, or absolute, alcohol. Ethanol msds intended for industrial use is usually denatured (rendered unfit to drink), typically with methanol msds, benzene, or kerosene.

Pure ethanol msds is a colourless flammable liquid (boiling point 78.5 °C [173.3 °F]) with an agreeable ethereal odour and a burning taste. Ethanol is toxic, affecting the central nervous system. Moderate amounts relax the muscles and produce an apparent stimulating effect by depressing the inhibitory activities of the brain, but larger amounts impair coordination and judgment, finally producing coma and death. It is an addictive drug for some persons, leading to the disease alcoholism.

Ethanol msds is converted in the body first to acetaldehyde and then to carbon dioxide and water, at the rate of about half a fluid ounce, or 15 ml, per hour; this quantity corresponds to a dietary intake of about 100 calories.
Ethanol msds with a small amount of an adulterant added so as to be unfit for use as a beverage.
Ethanol msds appears as a clear colorless liquid with a characteristic vinous odor and pungent taste. Flash point 55 °F. Density 6.5 lb / gal. Vapors are heavier than air.
Hydrogen cyanide, solution in alcohol, with not more than 45% hydrogen cyanide appears as a clear colorless liquid with a faint odor of bitter almonds. Less dense than water. Vapors are slightly lighter than air. Vapors are very toxic by inhalation or skin contact. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause a closed container to rupture violently and rocket.