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Why Ethanol Cannot Be Distilled Above 96%
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November 18, 2025

Why Ethanol Cannot Be Distilled Above 96%

Ethanol cannot be distilled above 95-96% ethanol because it forms an azeotrope with water. At this point, the liquid and vapor have the same composition, making distillation impossible to separate. Even with higher heat, the purity will not increase. Industries requiring near-100% ethanol use additional drying methods such as molecular sieves, special distillation with added chemicals, or vacuum distillation. These techniques break the azeotrope and produce anhydrous ethanol for chemical, industrial, and laboratory use.

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The role of isopropyl alcohol in industrial cleaning processes
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November 7, 2025

The role of isopropyl alcohol in industrial cleaning processes

Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is widely used in industry because it cleans quickly, evaporates quickly, and leaves no residue. It dissolves oil, dirt, adhesives, and flux, making it ideal for electronics, metalworking, laboratories, and manufacturing. IPA is safe for most plastics and metals and helps prevent corrosion or short circuits in electronic components. It is also used as a surface cleaner before coating or painting. While effective, IPA is intended for technical use only and should never be consumed.

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Safe Handling of Chemicals: Legislation, Labeling and Transport
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September 23, 2025

Safe Handling of Chemicals: Legislation, Labeling and Transport

The article “Working Safely with Chemicals: An Introduction to REACH, CLP, and ADR” provides an overview of the key European regulations on chemical safety. It explains why REACH (registration and risk assessment), CLP (classification and labeling), and ADR (transport of hazardous substances) are essential for companies working with chemicals. It also emphasizes the responsibility of users and suppliers to work safely, use correct labels, and arrange transport in accordance with legislation. The article serves as a starting point for a broader knowledge series.

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Denatured alcohol – what is it and why is it used?
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July 10, 2025

Denatured alcohol – what is it and why is it used?

Denatured alcohol is regular ethanol that producers intentionally make undrinkable by adding substances such as isopropanol (IPA), methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), Bitrex, or methanol. These additives make the alcohol bitter, unpleasant, or toxic, so no one can drink it and no excise duty has to be paid. This keeps ethanol affordable and available for technical applications, such as cleaning, degreasing, cleaning electronics, as a solvent in laboratories and industry, and as a fuel for methylated spirits.
Chemically the effect remains the same, but due to denaturing the alcohol falls outside the liquor laws.
This article explains how and why ethanol is denatured, which substances are used for this process, and what you can safely use this alcohol for—from household use to professional laboratory work.

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Treating wood with linseed oil
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July 31, 2024

Treating wood with linseed oil

Boiled linseed oil, a natural product from flax seeds, is ideal for protecting wood, metal and concrete from moisture and weather. Before treating wood, the surface must be clean, dry and free of grease. Sand the wood, apply the oil with a brush and let it soak in for 30 minutes. Treat dry areas again and remove excess oil with a lint-free cloth. Then let the wood dry for 24 hours. Linseed oil should not form a layer but should be absorbed into the wood. Pay attention to safety when storing used cloths to prevent spontaneous combustion. Regular maintenance is necessary for lasting protection and a beautiful finish.

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How do you lye wood?
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July 30, 2024

How do you lye wood?

Wood lyeing is a process where wood is treated with a caustic solution such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide to remove impurities and give it an aged appearance. This step-by-step plan includes preparing the wood, applying the lye solution, neutralizing and rinsing, and drying and finishing. Safety precautions are essential due to the toxicity of the lye. Although it can produce beautiful results, there are disadvantages such as the loosening of wood joints, the need for sanding, and the unsuitability of MDF and chipboard. Follow the guidelines carefully for a safe and successful result.

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Gluing Lego with MEK
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July 29, 2024

Gluing Lego with MEK

Bonding Lego with Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) creates a strong and durable bond between bricks, thanks to the chemical properties of the ABS plastic that Lego bricks are made of. MEK melts the surfaces of the ABS, creating a strong chemical bond. This prevents Lego creations from falling apart, for example when children play with them. Although MEK is effective, it does pose health risks and requires careful handling and safety precautions. Alternatives such as plastic glue, superglue and epoxy glue also provide strong bonds without the aggressive properties of MEK. By using the right glue and techniques, durable and robust Lego constructions can be created.

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Chemicals | Wholesaler and Supplier
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January 26, 2024

Chemicals | Wholesaler and Supplier

As a leading wholesaler, DutchChems offers a wide range of chemicals, suitable for both large and small projects. The company stands for quality, safety and compliance with strict regulations, while catering to a diverse customer base. With more than 200 products, including acids, bases, metals and organic compounds, DutchChems meets the needs of industry, education and research. The emphasis is on safe and sustainable use of chemicals, supported by expert advice and an informative helpdesk. DutchChems strives for innovation and safety in the chemical sector.

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Antifreeze | Types, Applications and Misconceptions
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January 25, 2024

Antifreeze | Types, Applications and Misconceptions

This article delves into the essential world of antifreeze, highlighting the various types such as ethylene glycol and propylene glycol, and their specific applications in vehicle cooling systems and beyond. It emphasizes the importance of antifreeze in both hot and cold climates, and not just as protection against freezing. In addition, the article addresses common misconceptions such as the interchangeability of antifreeze products and the need for regular replacement to ensure optimal performance. The article concludes with the importance of safe use and environmental impacts of antifreeze, promoting awareness and responsibility among the reader.

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Potassium nitrate
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July 14, 2022

Potassium nitrate

Potassium nitrate is a versatile product with various applications, including fertilizers and personal care products. As an effective oxidizer, it can also accelerate the combustion of combustible materials and is therefore considered mildly hazardous. DutchChems sells potassium nitrate in limited quantities, ranging from 1 kg to 5 kg per order, and the packaging carries an ADR LQ label. Buying potassium nitrate is legal, but the buyer’s intentions are recorded. DutchChems, based in the Netherlands, ships to all EU countries and works with DPD to ensure low shipping costs.

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