etanolo

Etanolo, also known as ethanol, is a simple aliphatic alcohol with the chemical formula C2H5OH. It is a colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic odor and is miscible with water and many organic solvents. Its boiling point is 78.37 °C, and it is highly flammable. Ethanol is metabolized in the human body and can act as a psychoactive substance in sufficient quantities.

Production and sources: Ethanol occurs naturally in small amounts during fermentation. Industrially, it is produced by fermentation of sugars by yeast, yielding beverage alcohol and byproducts. A second route converts ethene (petrochemical feedstock) into ethanol via hydration. Bioethanol is produced from biomass such as sugar- and starch-rich crops, and may be blended with gasoline to form various fuel grades.

Uses: Ethanol serves as a widely used solvent in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industry, and as a sanitizing agent. It is the primary alcohol found in alcoholic beverages. Ethanol is also used as a fuel component in gasoline blends (for example, certain percentages of ethanol in fuel), and as a chemical feedstock for the production of esters, acetaldehyde, and other compounds.

Safety and regulation: Ethanol is flammable and its vapors can ignite near ignition sources. Ingestion of large amounts can be toxic, and chronic exposure may have health effects. Beverage-grade ethanol is regulated for consumption, while denatured alcohol is produced with additives to deter drinking. Environmental considerations depend on the feedstock and production process, influencing life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions.

Overview: Ethanol is a versatile chemical with roles in energy, industry, and consumer products, produced from both biological and petrochemical pathways and subject to safety and regulatory controls.