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Cleaning

Alcohol for cleaning solutions

Ethanol, in its various forms, is widely recognised as a cleaning powerhouse. Cleaning ethanol solutions effectively tackle dirt, grime, and stains from a variety of surfaces, including plastics, glass, ceramics, and metals, which is why it is used in a wide range of cleaning products, for example, glass cleaner.

Due to its disinfection properties, solvent capabilities, quick evaporation, compatibility, safety, and availability, ethanol is a popular choice as a cleaning agent in various industries, including healthcare, hospitality, and household cleaning. 

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Ethanol vs rubbing alcohol in alcohol cleaning solutions

Next to ethanol, the use of isopropyl alcohol, also called rubbing alcohol, as an alcohol-based cleaner is very widespread. There are several reasons why most cleaners consist majorly of ethanol with small amounts of isopropyl alcohol (IPA):


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Availability

Due to ethanol's use in a wide variety of industries and products, it is more cost-effective compared to IPA while keeping very similar chemical properties.


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Environmental concerns

Ethanol is considered more environmentally friendly as it is a renewable resource derived from plants, compared to IPA, which is typically derived from petrochemicals. The less IPA is used in a solution, the less fossil fuels are needed.


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Regulatory considerations

The regulatory landscape for ethanol-based cleaners may be more favourable in certain regions or industries, making them the preferred choice. Some regulatory agencies or specific applications may have restrictions or guidelines that recommend or require the use of ethanol.


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Effectiveness

Ethanol and IPA have similar disinfecting properties, and both are effective at killing bacteria and viruses. The choice between ethanol and IPA may depend on the specific microorganisms being targeted, since ethanol is effective against certain viruses that IPA cannot kill.

 

Ethanol cleaning products in various industries

Ethanol is favoured for cleaning electronics since it is designed to remove dust, dirt, and fingerprints from delicate surfaces such as computer screens, keyboards, and mobile devices. Ethanol's solvent properties effectively dissolve and lift away grime without damaging sensitive electronic components (as long as alcohol with very low to non-existent water content is used).

Denatured extra neutral alcohol is frequently employed for cleaning purposes in industrial settings, automotive applications, and professional cleaning services. It is ethanol that has been mixed with additives such as IPA and Bitrex to render it unsuitable for human consumption. It is commonly found in cleaning products as a solvent for removing stubborn stains, grease, and residues.

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Denaturants

Alcohol for cleaning solutions is often denatured. Denatured alcohol or denatured ethanol is ethyl alcohol made unfit for human consumption without chemically altering or decomposing it. Because it cannot be consumed, it tends to be subject to far lower tax rates. To create a denatured alcohol for cleaning products that fits your needs, we can customise it with your preferred combination of denaturants.

Nedstar packaging options

Exporting ethanol to countries worldwide from over 75 international suppliers requires the appropriate packaging. To make sure that your product arrives safely to its destination, Nedstar has a number of packaging options, suitable for any industry or amount of ethanol.

1.000 litres
IBC tote

IBC Nedstar

Mid-sized shipments; our stackable IBC totes are widely used by companies across Europe, the US, and Asia for their efficiency and reliability.

25.000 litres
ISO container

ISO tank Nedstar

Our ISO tanks support intermodal transport by sea, rail, and road. They are ideal for companies sourcing in medium to large volumes.

35.000 litres
Tanktruck

Tank truck Nedstar

Our tank trucks are widely used across Europe to deliver bulk ethanol by road. They’re a practical option for regional transport and quick distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions

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