Many people often get confused about whether these two solvents are the same. Don’t worry! This article explains everything in detail for those who want to understand the major differences between the two. The distinction between white spirits and rubbing alcohol lies in their composition and usage, making them suitable for different applications.
Although white spirit and rubbing alcohol are both solvents, they are chemically different. While the spirit is a petroleum-based solvent, white rubbing alcohol is an ethanol solvent with a methanol additive.
Unlike any other solvent, both rubbing alcohol and white spirits can effectively dissolve cured paint. This makes them very useful for removing dry paint stains from other unintended surfaces and clothing.
Continue reading to learn more about the difference between white spirit and rubbing alcohol, as well as their applications and common uses.
| Table of Content
1. Chemical and organic composition of white spirit and rubbing alcohol 2. Chemical and physical properties 3. Key uses and applications Final Verdict |
Chemical and Organic Composition of White Spirit and Rubbing Alcohol
White spirits and rubbing alcohol are types of organic compounds. Both are highly volatile clear liquids, but the former is derived from petroleum-based while the latter is alcohol based.
Its hydrophobic properties – such as insoluble in water – make it an effective solvent for nonpolar hydrophobic substances. White spirit is also popular by various names, including turpentine substitute, petroleum spirit, and mineral turpentine.
The substance is mainly used as an extraction solvent and paint thinner. It is a good degreasing and cleaning agent because it can easily dissolve in a wide range of substances, including wood preservatives, acrylic paint, lacquer, grease, glue, and varnish.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is a mixture of isopropyl alcohol, water, and various other ingredients. It typically contains 68-72% alcohol by volume, with the remainder consisting of water, dyes, oils, and denatured substances. Some medicines may contain methyl salicylate to relieve pain.
Chemical and Physical Properties
Here, we discuss some chemical and physical properties of rubbing alcohol and white spirit (ethanol-based or isopropyl alcohol):
Rubbing Alcohol (Isopropyl Alcohol)
Physical properties
Appearance: Colourless, clear liquid
Odor: Medicinal, sharp smell
Density: 0.785 g/cm³ at 20°C
Boiling point: 81.5°C (180.5°F) for isopropyl alcohol
Solubility: Completely miscible in water
Evaporation Rate: Evaporates fast and quickly when exposed to air
Viscosity: Low viscosity
Flashpoint: 11.7°C (53°F)
Chemical Properties:
It is isopropyl alcohol (C3h4o) or ethanol (C2h3OH) mixed with water and additives—highly critical integration with liquid pairs and vapour pairs.
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions. But it can react with powerful oxidizers.
Toxicity: May cause skin and eye irritation; Inhaling vapour can cause dizziness or a headache.
Antimicrobial Properties: Effectively destroys bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
White spirit (also known as turpentine substitute or mineral spirits)
Physical Properties
Appearance: Clear, colourless liquid
Boiling Point: 150-200°C (302–392°F)
Solubility: Insoluble in water, easily soluble in organic solvents
Density: 075-0.80 g/cm³ at 20°C
Flashpoint: 38-40°C (100–104°F)
Viscosity: Low Viscosity
Evaporation Rate: Slower than water
Odour: Petroleum-like smell
Chemical Composition:
First, a mixture of hydrocarbons, including alkanes, cycloalkanes and aromatics.
Ignorance: High level, one pair at a time
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions. but is capable of reacting with potent oxidizers.
Toxicity: Harmful if inhaled or swallowed. Long-term respiratory illness and skin inflammation may occur.
Environmental Impact: It is not biodegradable and is harmful to aquatic life.
Key Uses and Applications
White spirits and rubbing alcohol have applications across numerous industries. Commonly, they are used as solvents because they dissolve nonpolar substances such as acrylic paint.
White spirit is used mainly to clean hardened and thin paintbrushes. Other industrial and household applications of the white spirit include the following:
- Solvent for products such as adhesives, varnishes, printing inks, and photocopier toners.
- Degreasing agent
- Home dry cleaning fluid
- Industrial Cleaning Agent
- Extracting substances
Rubbing Alcohol
Disinfectants: Used to disinfect surfaces. Medical equipment and skin should be used before injection because it can kill bacteria and viruses.
Stain removers: Effective in removing stubborn stains from clothing, including ink, markers, and grease.
Hand sanitizer: Homemade hand sanitizer typically includes soap and water. If available for disinfection.
Surface cleaning product: evaporates quickly without leaving a residue. This makes it ideal for cleaning glass, countertops, and electronics.
Pain Relief: Use topically to soothe sore muscles and joints, provide a cooling effect, and reduce inflammation.
Risks and Side Effects of Rubbing Alcohol
Although rubbing alcohol has many benefits, some risks may occur, such as
Skin Irritation: Some individuals may become irritated on touch with their skin. If irritation occurs, the affected area can be washed with soap and water. Pure isopropyl alcohol should not be applied directly to the skin. They may penetrate and cause poisoning if they come into contact. Remove contaminated clothing and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water. This is especially true in the shower to ensure that it can be removed completely.
Fire Hazard: Rubbing alcohol is highly flammable. A properly secured cover must be provided to protect the open frame. If not in use
Eye Injury: Direct contact with the eye can cause serious harm. Avoid using alcohol in Rustila around the eyes and in sensitive areas. If contact occurs, immediately flush your eyes with clean, running water for at least 15 minutes to lift the upper eyelid and remove all traces of alcohol. If you wear contact lenses, take them off before washing them off.
Risk of Toxicity: Isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol are toxic. Inhaling or swallowing smoke can cause serious health problems. Even small sips can cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, gastrointestinal irritation (stomach pain, nausea, vomiting), and, in severe cases, low body temperature, blood pressure, heart failure, or death.
Final Verdict!
White spirits and rubbing alcohol thus act as effective solvents. However, various chemical elements and characteristics affect these substances. This is different from white liquor. Solvents derived from oil, such as those produced by AL FARAJI OIL. In addition to the paint and industrial cleaning motives for its solubility as a non-polar substance Rubbing alcohol, usually isopropyl or ethanol, is popular for its disinfecting properties. This makes it suitable for both medical and household cleaners. Understanding these differences is important to ensure safety and effectiveness. Always handle both substances with caution to reduce risk.
