Isopropyl Alcohol vs. Denatured Alcohol: Key Differences & Uses

Isopropyl alcohol and denatured alcohol are different in structure, orientation, and purposes. Isopropyl alcohol is known as a secondary alcohol, because it is attached to two carbons. Denatured alcohol is ethanol (ethyl alcohol) with additives to make it toxic. Denatured alcohol is a primary alcohol, being connected to one carbon.

Isopropyl alcohol

• Isopropyl alcohol is known by its common name of rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol is easily attainable and may be a substitute for ethanol.

Denatured alcohol

• Denatured alcohol is formed from ethanol by adding toxic chemicals to ensure it will not be digested. An example of a chemical added is denatonium benzoate.

Why is denatured alcohol made?

• Alcohol denatured is made that way to industrial purposes. Ethanol is taxed highly because of its popularity. Denatured alcohol is not taxed at the same rate because it is not for beverage consumption.

Uses of denatured alcohol

• Denatured alcohol is used to make soaps, artificial rubber, pesticide bases and lubricant. It can not be used in place of ethanol on the skin.

Isopropyl alcohol

• Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol is used for many things in households and industry. Isopropyl alcohol is used widely as a disinfectant for cuts and scrapes. It can also be used as an aftershave as well as a stain remover. Isopropyl alcohol is also used in industry to remove water from gasoline.