Methanol vs Ethanol: the hidden dangers
When winter strikes, effective de-icing products are a must to ensure safety on roads, runways, …
When winter strikes, effective de-icing products are a must to ensure safety on roads, runways, and industrial sites. But not all de-icers are created equal, and the choice of ingredients can have significant implications for both health and the environment. A key point of differentiation lies in the use of methanol versus ethanol.
Methanol (CH₃OH): A simple alcohol with a single carbon atom, methanol is commonly derived from natural gas or biomass. While it is highly effective in lowering the freezing point of water, methanol is also highly toxic and poses severe risks to humans and animals if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
Ethanol (C₂H₅OH): A slightly larger molecule, ethanol is produced through fermentation or petrochemical processes. It is significantly less toxic and is widely used in beverages, pharmaceuticals, and safer chemical formulations.
Methanol exposure can lead to serious health complications, including:
Acute toxicity: Ingesting even small amounts (10-30 ml) can cause blindness or death.
Chronic exposure: Long-term inhalation or skin contact can damage the nervous system.
Environmental concerns: Methanol spills can contaminate soil and waterways, harming wildlife.
Recent news highlights the dangers of methanol contamination, particularly in alcoholic beverages. Methanol poisoning incidents have surfaced globally, including a tragic case in Laos where six tourists died after consuming methanol-tainted alcohol distributed as free shots. A British lawyer was among the victims, highlighting the devastating consequences of ingesting even small quantities of methanol. Authorities have linked such cases to illicit practices where cheaper methanol is used to spike drinks
Sources: The Standard LBC Coast FM
In another instance, officials identified methanol poisoning as a leading cause of fatalities in counterfeit alcohol scandals across Southeast Asia. Methanol is often used in improperly distilled or counterfeit spirits due to its low cost, despite its severe health risks, including blindness, organ failure or death.
Sources: The Standard Coast FM
Despite the risks, methanol remains prevalent in some de-icing and cleaning products because:
Ethanol offers comparable freezing-point reduction with significantly fewer health and environmental risks. At Nielsen Chemicals, we have committed to using ethanol in all our de-icing solutions to ensure both performance and safety.
Screenwash & De-Icer -4°CA versatile screenwash and de-icer combination that works effectively down to -4°C. |
Screenwash & De-Icer -20°CKeeps your windscreen clear and safe in sub-zero conditions. |
Power De-IcerA high-performance solution for harsh winter environments. |
By choosing ethanol-based solutions, you are prioritising safety without compromising on performance. At Nielsen Chemicals, we lead with innovation, crafting de-icing products that reflect our commitment to safer chemistry and environmental responsibility.
Talk to our experts at 01283 2222 77 or visit www.nielsenchemicals.com
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Keep your fleet safe, your staff protected, and your conscience clear with Nielsen’s safer alternatives.
