ethanolbased

Ethanol-based refers to products and formulations that rely on ethanol as a primary ingredient, solvent, or additive. Ethanol, or ethyl alcohol, is a volatile, colorless liquid produced mainly by fermenting sugars with yeast. It is miscible with water and many organic solvents, and it burns with a relatively clean flame. Ethanol-based formulations span fuels, industrial solvents, cleaning products, personal care items, and pharmaceutical preparations.

Production and types of ethanol used in ethanol-based products come from different feedstocks and processes. Industrial ethanol is commonly produced by fermentation of carbohydrate resources such as sugarcane or corn, followed by distillation and dehydration. Advances in technology enable the production of cellulosic or second-generation ethanol from non-food feedstocks. In fuels, ethanol is blended with gasoline at varying ratios to create ethanol-gasoline blends used in different markets.

Common applications include as a biofuel or blending agent in transportation fuels; as a solvent in inks, coatings, cleaners, and pharmaceutical ingredients; and in consumer products such as hand sanitizers and disinfectants where ethanol provides antiseptic properties. The concentration of ethanol in personal care products typically ranges from around 60% to about 95%.

Safety, environmental, and regulatory considerations are important for ethanol-based products. Ethanol is flammable and stored away from heat sources; exposure can be harmful if inhaled or ingested in significant amounts. Environmental impact depends on production methods and feedstocks, with lifecycle assessments varying by situation. Regulations often govern ethanol content in fuels, labeling, storage, and handling, as well as purity standards for industrial and consumer products.