INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Ethanol Molecule

Ethanol molecule (C₂H₅OH) is a simple organic compound used as a solvent, disinfectant, and fuel in food-grade ethanol solutions.

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Component Specifications

Definition
Ethanol (C₂H₅OH) is a volatile, flammable, colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. In food-grade ethanol solutions, it is produced via fermentation of sugars or hydration of ethylene, followed by purification to meet food safety standards. It acts as a solvent, preservative, and extraction medium in food manufacturing, with properties including miscibility with water, low toxicity at appropriate concentrations, and antimicrobial effects.
Working Principle
Ethanol functions through its hydroxyl group (-OH), which enables hydrogen bonding, making it an effective solvent for polar and non-polar compounds. In food applications, it dissolves flavors, extracts botanicals, and inhibits microbial growth by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes. Its volatility aids in evaporation during processing, leaving minimal residue.
Materials
Food-grade ethanol must comply with purity standards, typically ≥95% ethanol by volume, with impurities like methanol, aldehydes, and fusel oils controlled to safe limits. It is derived from agricultural sources (e.g., corn, sugarcane) or synthetic processes, ensuring no toxic contaminants.
Technical Parameters
  • Purity ≥95% for food-grade
  • Density 0.789 g/cm³ at 20°C
  • Solubility Miscible with water and organic solvents
  • Flash Point 13°C
  • Boiling Point 78.37°C
  • Chemical Formula C₂H₅OH
  • Molecular Weight 46.07 g/mol
Standards
ISO 9001, ISO 22000, FDA 21 CFR, EU Regulation 2019/787

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Ethanol Molecule.

ethanol molecule food-grade ethanol C2H5OH industrial solvent food manufacturing chemical raw material antimicrobial agent extraction solvent Ethanol Molecule in Food Manufacturing

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Food-Grade Ethanol Solution

High-purity ethanol solution for alcoholic beverage production

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Flammability and explosion hazard
  • Volatility causing inhalation risks
  • Toxicity at high concentrations
  • Environmental contamination from spills
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Improper storage or handling leading to leaks
Failure: Fire or explosion due to ignition of ethanol vapors
Mitigation: Use flame-proof equipment, maintain ventilation, and store in approved containers away from heat sources.
Trigger: Contamination with impurities like methanol
Failure: Health hazards in food products, such as poisoning
Mitigation: Implement quality control checks, source from certified suppliers, and test batches for purity compliance.
Trigger: Inadequate concentration control in solutions
Failure: Reduced efficacy as a solvent or disinfectant
Mitigation: Regular calibration of mixing equipment and use of precise measurement tools.

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Purity tolerance of ±0.5% for ethanol concentration; impurity limits as per FDA and EU regulations (e.g., methanol <0.1%)
Test Method
Gas chromatography (GC) for purity analysis, titration for concentration verification, and sensory evaluation for odor and taste in food applications.

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

Not customer reviews or live demand data. These dimensions support RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
4/5
Manufacturing capability
4/5
Inspection readiness
5/5
Supplier transparency
3/5

These scores are example evaluation dimensions, not real customer ratings, country-specific buyer feedback, or live inquiry activity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between food-grade and industrial ethanol?

Food-grade ethanol has higher purity and stricter controls on impurities like methanol and aldehydes to ensure safety for human consumption, whereas industrial ethanol may contain denaturants and is not suitable for food use.

How is ethanol used in food manufacturing?

Ethanol is used as a solvent for flavors and colors, an extraction medium for herbs and spices, a preservative in beverages, and a disinfectant for equipment, leveraging its antimicrobial properties.

What are the safety risks of handling ethanol in industrial settings?

Risks include flammability, volatility leading to explosive atmospheres, toxicity if ingested in high concentrations, and environmental hazards from spills; proper ventilation, storage, and PPE are essential.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Data Basis

CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

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