Ethanol; a Highly Purified Form of Alcohol Used In Several Industrial Applications Including In Foods and Cosmetics

 

Ethanol

Often called ethyl alcohol, ethanol is an alcohol that has a distinctive alcoholic odor. It is found in many foods and cosmetics and has been used as a solvent and preservative for many years. Ethanol can be produced from sugarcane and corn and is blended with gasoline to produce ethanol fuel. It can also be produced through petrochemical processes.

Global Ethanol Market was valued at US$ 48,734.3 Million in 2016 and is expected to register a CAGR of 1.00% during the forecast period to reach USD 53,105.3 Million by 2025.

Ethanol is a highly purified form of alcohol with a chemical formula of C2H6O. It has a pungent taste and a burning sensation when concentrated. It is miscible with water and can be absorbed by the body through the skin. In some cases, it is absorbed by the central nervous system and can result in coma or death. It is also used as an antiseptic and to prevent skin infections. It is also used as a lubricant, a solvent and a preservative. It is used in cosmetics, soaps, varnishes and other personal care products.

Ethanol is produced from fermented sugarcane or corn. When mixed with gasoline, it produces a higher octane number and is less expensive than gasoline. This is a significant advantage, as it reduces engine stress. However, it can also result in a reduction in miles per gallon. The amount of ethanol blended into a vehicle's gasoline can be as high as 85%. The resulting ethanol fuel blend is known as E85. E85 can be used in flex fuel vehicles.

Ethanol is a renewable resource, and is legal in most countries. It is also used as a chemical solvent and feedstock for the synthesis of other products. It is also used to produce alcoholic beverages. In the United States, the majority of ethanol is produced in the Midwest and Upper Midwest. Some Canadian farmers have formed cooperatives to grow crops for ethanol production. Recently in April 2022, Sumitomo Chemical announced that it has completed construction of it pilot facility for production of renewable ethanol-based ethylene for environmentally-sustainable polyolefin in its Chiba Work facility, in Ichibaran, Japan.