What is Industrial Methylated Spirit?
Commonly known as denatured alcohol, industrial methylated spirit is ethanol that has been treated with additives in order to become poisonous, bad tasting, smelly and nauseating. This is to discourage recreational consumption. In some cases, industrial methylated spirits are also dyed to deter human consumption.
Industrial methylated spirits were created to avoid paying taxes on alcohol. If it cannot be consumed, it is exempt from paying tax. Denaturing alcohol provides a solution to permit legitimate use and manufacture of ethanol for cheap industrial use.
Key properties include:
- Chemical name: Industrial methylated spirit (denatured ethanol)
- Chemical formula: C₂H₅OH (ethanol base with additives)
- Appearance: Clear, colourless liquid (may be dyed depending on formulation)
- Odour: Alcohol-like, often unpleasant due to additives
- CAS number: Varies depending on formulation
- Toxicity: Harmful if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through skin
ReAgent can supply IMS in a wide range of pack sizes, from small laboratory bottles to 1000L IBCs, ensuring flexibility for all scales of use.
Applications of Industrial Methylated Spirit
Industrial methylated spirit is widely used as a cost-effective solvent, cleaning agent, and fuel substitute across numerous industries:
- Pharmaceuticals – Used as a solvent and in the preparation of medicinal products
- Cosmetics & Personal Care – Acts as a solvent in perfumes, hairsprays, and other formulations
- Printing – Cleans rollers, plates, and machinery parts effectively
- Laboratories – Used for sterilisation, disinfection, and as a solvent in chemical processes
- Surface Cleaning – Applied in commercial cleaning products to dissolve oils, greases, and residues
- Fuel – Serves as a low-cost fuel for camping stoves and spirit burners
Polishes & Coatings – Acts as a base solvent in the production of polishes, varnishes, and other coatings - Paints & Inks – Used as a solvent and thinning agent in manufacturing formulations
Handling and Storage
As IMS is a flammable and toxic liquid, it requires careful handling:
- Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and open flames
- Use chemically resistant containers such as HDPE or approved drums/IBCs
- Avoid skin and eye contact – Wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing when handling
- Do not ingest or inhale vapours, and ensure adequate ventilation
Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for detailed safety and handling instructions
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON INDUSTRIAL METHYLATED SPIRIT
You will need to register your interest in this product with The National Registration Unit before we can supply it to you. Please call them on 0141-555-3489 or 0141-555-3586 and they will send you a registration letter or if you wish you can contact them at:
National Registration Unit
Portcullis House
21 India Street
Glasgow
G2 4PZ
The process does not take long and National Registration Unit is normally very helpful. This product is often referred to by them as ‘industrial denatured alcohol’, or IDA.
Why Choose ReAgent as Your IMS Supplier?
With almost 50 years of experience as a UK chemical manufacturer, ReAgent offers:
- Bespoke packaging and labelling services
- High-purity formulations meeting industry requirements
- Fast, reliable nationwide delivery with ADR-registered couriers
- Technical support and regulatory guidance to simplify purchasing
ReAgent is accredited to international standards including ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 13485:2016, and ISO 45001:2018, guaranteeing quality, safety, and environmental responsibility across all operations.