denatured alcohol
Denatured alcohol is ethanol that has been treated with additives to make it undrinkable. This process is done to prevent misuse as a recreational beverage, allowing it to be sold without the same taxes as consumable alcohol. Common uses include cleaning products, solvents, and fuel for camping stoves.
The additives used in denatured alcohol can vary, but they often include substances like methanol or isopropyl alcohol. These chemicals not only make the alcohol unpalatable but can also be toxic if ingested. Therefore, denatured alcohol is primarily intended for industrial and household applications rather than consumption.