What is Specially Denatured Alcohol (SDA)?
Specially Denatured Alcohol is Pure Ethanol that is rendered unfit for drinking purposes. This is done by adding solvents such as Methanol, Ethyl Acetate, IPA and many others in quantities specified by the Federal Government. The addition of these solvents is what “denatures” the pure alcohol making it unfit for consumption. Therefore, the term “denatured” does not mean to alter the Ethanol molecule (as when a protein is denatured by heat or a chemical agent), but to make the Ethanol unfit for consumption by “spoiling” or “poisoning” the alcohol. Certain SDA’s have additives as well as denaturants. These additives are specific to each application. For instance SDA 38B when intended for use as a mouthwash has 1% w/v Menthol as an additive. SDA 38B when used as a soap has 1% w/v lavender added. There are over 40 SDA formulations intended for various applications. All SDA formulations and their intended use are determined and regulated by the BATF (Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco & Firearms). O
