what is denatured alcohol

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that has been mixed with toxic or bad-tasting additives to make it unfit for human consumption. It is used as a solvent, fuel for alcohol burners and camping stoves, and in household cleaning products, industrial products, and disinfectants. Denatured alcohol is also used in cosmetics and skincare products as a drying agent. The main additive in denatured alcohol is usually 10% methanol, which is highly toxic when consumed orally. Other common additives include isopropyl alcohol, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and methyl isobutyl ketone. There are several grades of denatured alcohol, but in general, the denaturants used are similar. Denatured alcohol is not fit for human consumption because of these additives and is instead used as a lower-cost solvent or fuel.