[Stoves] Methanol stove fuel. was Re: [Gasification]Methanoltoxicity?

[Crispin Pemberton-Pigott]

Dear Ethanol Users

This is from Teri Kruger at the Paraffin Safety Association.  We are still trying to determine if there is any methanol in the locally sold 'Methylated Spirits'.

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Safety (MSDS) data for methylated spirit:

Synonyms: meths, denatured alcohol 

The composition of this material varies between countries, and even within countries. The principal component is: 
-    ethyl alcohol (ethanol, CAS 64-17-5, >60%), and this is denaturated (in other words, made unsuitable for drinking) through the addition of small quantities of 
 
-    methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK, CAS 108-10-1, typically <10%), or 
-    methyl alcohol (methanol, CAS 67-56-1, typically <10%) 
Generally a further chemical is added to give the product an unpleasant taste. Often this is 
 
-    bitrex (trace), and a dye of some kind is added to indicate the product is not for drinking, such as 
 
-    fluorescein (trace), with the balance (<10%) being water. 

The safety hazards of the product are predominantly those arising from ethanol and the primary minor component, MIBK or methyl alcohol, which can be assumed to act virtually independently. 

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Regards
Crispin