METHYLATED SPIRITS (METHS)

Description

Methylated Spirits (Meths), commonly known as Meths, is a versatile industrial-grade alcohol widely used for cleaning and sterilizing purposes. It is a purple-colored, primary aliphatic alcohol with a mild, non-residual odor. Meths is mixed with a small amount of water and is highly compatible with many hydrocarbon solvents and chemicals. A concentration of 60% ethanol gives it antibacterial properties, making it an effective cleaning agent.

Common Names: Ethanol, Ethyl Alcohol, Alcohol, Meths, Hydrous Methylated Spirits, Coloured Methylated Spirits
UN Number: 1170
Code: M

Popular Applications of Methylated Spirits (Meths)

  1. Surface Cleaning and Sterilization
    Methylated Spirits is widely used for cleaning floors, sterilizing medical and dental instruments, and general household cleaning. It effectively removes stains and dirt from various surfaces.
  2. Glass Cleaner
    When diluted (1 part Meths to 5 parts water), it works efficiently as a glass cleaner, leaving surfaces streak-free and clear.
  3. Wooden Floor Cleaner
    For cleaning wooden floors, dilute ½ cup of Methylated Spirits in 8 liters of warm water. This solution effectively cleans and enhances the appearance of wooden surfaces.
  4. Ink and Vivid Marker Removal
    Methylated Spirits can remove ink and vivid marks from some painted surfaces without causing damage.
  5. Fuel
    Meths is also used as a clean-burning BBQ starter fuel and fuel for certain camping equipment, ensuring efficient combustion without residue.
  6. Manufacturing
    It is commonly used in the production of ethanol-based cleaning products and cleaning compounds.

Miscellaneous Uses

  • Methylated Spirits is not drinkable due to the addition of a denaturant.
  • For applications requiring uncolored, industrial-grade alcohol, Ethanol MS95WP can be used.
  • In situations where the presence of water is undesirable, SDA AMS MS99WP is preferred.
  • If Meths is too harsh for certain materials like plastics and paints, Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) is a milder alternative.

Bulk Supply
We are bulk suppliers of Methylated Spirits in New Zealand. Industrial customers are encouraged to download and review the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for safety guidelines.

Be sure to follow all safety instructions as per the Material Safety Data Sheet.

Applications & Uses

Methylated Spirits (Meths), also known as Denatured Alcohol, is a versatile solvent with a wide range of industrial, commercial, and household applications. It is primarily composed of ethanol with additives to make it unfit for consumption. It is highly effective as a cleaning agent, fuel, disinfectant, and degreaser.

  • Cleaning & Degreasing:
    • Removes grease, oils, and residues from surfaces such as glass, metals, and plastics.
    • Used for cleaning paintbrushes, spray guns, and other painting tools.
    • Helps remove adhesive residues from stickers and tapes.
  • Surface Preparation & Paint Thinning:
    • Used as a solvent to thin shellac-based primers and coatings.
    • Prepares surfaces for painting by removing dirt, oils, and contaminants.
    • Helps in the removal of unwanted paint or graffiti from non-porous surfaces.
  • Disinfecting & Sterilization:
    • Used in hospitals, clinics, and laboratories as a surface disinfectant.
    • Effective for sterilizing tools, equipment, and medical instruments.
  • Fuel & Heating Applications:
    • Used as a fuel for alcohol burners, camping stoves, and spirit lamps.
    • Common in catering and food service for heating chafing dishes and fondue pots.
  • Woodworking & Furniture Polishing:
    • Used in French polishing to dissolve shellac and apply a smooth finish on wooden surfaces.
    • Helps in stain removal from furniture.
  • Glass & Mirror Cleaning:
    • Leaves streak-free finishes on glass, mirrors, and windshields.
    • Used in windshield washer fluids to prevent freezing in cold weather.
  • Pest Control & Insect Repellent:
    • Effective in killing insects and pests like bed bugs and mites.
    • Can be used to remove mildew and mold from surfaces.
  • Printing & Signage Industry:
    • Cleans ink stains from printing equipment.
    • Used for surface preparation in vinyl sign applications.
  • Laboratory & Chemical Uses:
    • A solvent for chemical processing and laboratory experiments.
    • Used in the extraction and purification of compounds.

Potential Customers & Industries

  • Automotive & Transport Industry:
    • Car detailing businesses for windshield and glass cleaning.
    • Mechanics and garages for degreasing automotive parts.
    • Fleet management companies for vehicle maintenance.
  • Painting & Decorating:
    • Professional painters for thinning shellac and cleaning brushes.
    • DIY enthusiasts for furniture restoration and paint preparation.
  • Cleaning & Janitorial Services:
    • Housekeeping and janitorial companies for surface cleaning.
    • Hotels and restaurants for kitchen and window cleaning.
  • Medical & Healthcare:
    • Hospitals, clinics, and dental offices for equipment sterilization.
    • Laboratories for cleaning and chemical processing.
  • Hospitality & Catering:
    • Restaurants and caterers for chafing dish fuel.
    • Campgrounds and outdoor activity providers for portable stove fuel.
  • Construction & Woodworking:
    • Woodworkers and cabinet makers for French polishing.
    • Construction companies for surface preparation before painting.
  • Printing & Signage:
    • Commercial printing houses for ink cleaning.
    • Sign manufacturers for surface preparation before applying vinyl decals.
  • Households & Retail Markets:
    • Homeowners for cleaning windows, mirrors, and household items.
    • Supermarkets and retail stores for selling in DIY cleaning sections.

Safety & Handling:

Always use in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of fumes.
Keep away from open flames as it is highly flammable.
Avoid contact with skin and eyes. If contact occurs, wash thoroughly with water.
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Not for internal use; ingestion can be fatal due to the denaturant added to the alcohol.

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