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The multiple identities of ethanol: What are its unexpected uses besides drinking alcohol?
Ethanol is not only the main component of alcoholic beverages, but also has multiple identities. This compound has uses in a variety of fields including medical, energy and industry. Focusing on these unexpected uses, we can’t help but be surprised by their wide range of applications. Next, let’s dive into ethanol’s many uses.
Medical purposes
In the medical field, ethanol has been used as an anesthetic since ancient times. Today, it is mainly used as a disinfectant because it effectively kills most bacteria and viruses.
The disinfection effect of ethanol comes from its ability to dissolve the membrane lipid bilayer of microorganisms and denature their proteins.
Especially in hand sanitizers and medical wipes, 70% ethanol solutions are considered more effective than pure ethanol because water molecules enhance ethanol's antibacterial activity. In addition, ethanol can be used as an antidote in the treatment of ethylene glycol and methanol poisoning by inhibiting alcohol dehydrogenase.
As a source of energy
Ethanol plays an important role in the energy sector, especially in Brazil, where it is widely used as a gasoline additive and alternative fuel. Brazilian gasoline contains at least 25% anhydrous ethanol, allowing local cars to run on ethanol-fueled engines.
The use of ethanol as a fuel not only reduces harmful exhaust emissions, but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Relevant studies have shown that the combustion of ethanol produces less fluorocarbons than gasoline, which makes it gradually receive more attention in the global energy transformation. Many countries are also exploring the potential of ethanol as a renewable energy source to reduce dependence on traditional fossil fuels.
Industrial and other uses
The use of ethanol as an industrial raw material is ubiquitous. It is used as a solvent and is widely used in the manufacture of paints, cosmetics and food flavoring agents.
Its unique chemical structure enables ethanol to dissolve a variety of polar and non-polar compounds, making it a "universal solvent."
In addition, ethanol is also widely used in laboratories. For example, in the purification process of DNA and RNA, ethanol is usually used to precipitate polysaccharides. Ethanol can also be used as a cooling bath to keep experimental vessels cold.
Ethanol as a good companion in life
At home, ethanol can also be used as a fuel for heating and cooking. As people pay more attention to environmental protection and renewable resources, the use of ethanol furnaces is gradually heating up. Not only does this provide a clean burn, but it also creates a cozy atmosphere.
Conclusion
Overall, the uses of ethanol range from medical to energy, from industrial manufacturing to daily life, and its multiple identities are amazing. In the future, with the advancement of science and technology and the deepening of applied research, the potential of ethanol will be further explored.
So, besides the known drinking alcohol, what other unexpected functions can you think of that ethanol might have?
