Why is Bitrex added to Ethanol? Is it just to denature it or add value to ethyl alcohol?

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Why is Bitrex added to Ethanol? Is it just to denature it or add value to ethyl alcohol?

2007-04-19 22:36:09 · 2 answers · asked by austenwarikoru 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry

2 answers

To denature it, so that it cannot be consumed, and therefore no tax has to be paid on it.

2007-04-20 00:17:46 · answer #1 · answered by Gervald F 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋

Bitrex is a bad tasting material typically added to household products so that young children will spit it out before they get poisoned. Toddlers like to open bottles they find in kitchen and bathroom cabinets. This helps them avoid drinking the substance.

Denatured alcohol ususally contains some methanol and isopropoyl alcohol to discourage adults. Biterex is aimed at kids.

2007-04-20 08:02:49 · answer #2 · answered by reb1240 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋