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CAS64-17-5
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Structural formula
C₂H₅OH
Clean exhaust air containing ethanol
What is ethanol?
Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is a colourless, highly flammable and volatile solvent. It is one of the most commonly used chemicals in the world and belongs to the group of alcohols. In nature, ethanol is produced by the fermentation of sugar by yeasts. In chemistry and industry, it plays an important role as a solvent, fuel additive and starting material for the production of numerous chemical compounds.
Evolution
Ethanol is produced and released in various industrial processes. In the beverage industry, it is mainly produced through alcoholic fermentation for the production of alcoholic beverages. In the chemical industry, ethanol is produced by hydrating ethylene. Ethanol is also used in production and combustion as an alternative fuel in the biofuel industry.
Recognition
Ethanol has a characteristic, slightly sweet and pungent odour. It is a colourless liquid that can irritate the eyes and skin. Inhaling high concentrations of ethanol vapours can cause headaches and dizziness.
Limit values
In Germany, the limit values for ethanol are regulated by the Technical Instructions on Air Quality Control (TA-Luft) and the occupational exposure limit values (AGW). The OEL for ethanol is 500 ppm (parts per million) or 1200 mg/m³. These limit values are intended to ensure that the concentrations in the workplace do not cause any damage to health.
Hazards
Health: High concentrations of ethanol can cause respiratory irritation, dizziness and headaches. If swallowed, there is a risk of poisoning, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, unconsciousness and, in the worst case, death. Long-term exposure can cause liver and kidney damage and affect the central nervous system. Environment: Ethanol is biodegradable, but in high concentrations can lead to oxygen depletion in water bodies, jeopardising aquatic life and the balance of ecosystems. This affects water quality and can cause long-term damage to flora and fauna. Economic damage: Improper handling of ethanol harbours explosion and fire hazards. Fires and explosions can cause significant property damage and production interruptions, resulting in financial losses. High insurance costs and legal consequences are also possible risks.
The oxytec Purification Technology
For many organic pollutants, we offer energy-saving and clean technologies for neutralisation, which we combine in multi-stage plants. In order to achieve a reduction below the limit values, not only the dimensioning of the respective purification stage but also the sequence of the technologies is decisive, as they have different physical effects on the molecules. Below we present some of our purification modules.
CWA
Alternative technologies
Other technologies such as conventional activated carbon filters and simple ventilation systems often have disadvantages such as high energy consumption, limited cleaning performance, large space requirements, long lead times and high investment costs.
Advantages of the oxytec solution
- Very low maintenance
- High efficiency in pollutant reduction
- Low energy consumption (minimal environmental impact)
- Compact design that requires little space
- Short installation and commissioning times
- Cost-effective compared to alternative technologies
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