Storage and Shelf Life of Ethanol
When we think about the storage shelf life of ethanol, we might first think about the shelf life of alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine. However, if you’re running a business or a laboratory, then you care more about the storage and shelf life of ethanol as a chemical solvent.
In this article, we’ll explain how to properly store ethanol, how long you can expect it to last, and why storage and shelf life is so different compared to alcoholic beverages.
Types of Ethanol
Alcohol. A ubiquitous word that can take on several different meanings depending on the context. Learn more about the types of Ethanol.
Stability of ethanol solvent
Ethanol as a chemical reagent or solvent does not contain these extra flavor and aroma compounds. Therefore, we no longer need to worry about the degradation of these important flavor compounds causing off-aromas and ruining the quality of the product. Additionally, in the absence of residual sugar (which is present even in dry wines and beverages), we are not concerned about microbial growth. Remember that ethanol is a natural antimicrobial agent, and is often used intentionally in products as a preservative. Microbes do not have a chance of surviving in a pure ethanol solvent.
Ethanol can theoretically degrade to form acetaldehyde, but is unlikely to happen during storage, unless ethanol is stored under extreme conditions with heat and light.
Therefore, we can effectively consider the shelf life of ethanol as a chemical reagent to be indefinite. The primary concern with ethanol shelf life is evaporation, since ethanol will evaporate more rapidly than water. (The boiling point of ethanol is 78.37 degrees Celsius.) This could result in a lower concentration of ethanol than expected, which could create problems for highly specific analytic techniques such as liquid-chromatography.
How is ethanol used in the lab
An important solvent and reagent for many labs and businesses, Ethanol is one of the greenest solvents available, with low toxicity. It has intermediate polarity, which means it can dissolve a diverse range of analytes. It is important for many analytical techniques including chromatography and mass spectrometry, and well as in the synthesis of chemical reagents. It is also commonly used in the formulation of foods and beverages, as well as health and beauty aids, in part due to its function as an antimicrobial preservative.
How to properly store ethanol
Ethanol is best stored in a cool, dry area with good ventilation, away from heat and light. Humidity should be monitored and limited, as ethanol can easily absorb water from the environment. Since ethanol is highly flammable, it should be stored in an approved cabinet along with other flammable solvents.
What is the shelf life of ethanol
If stored properly, well-sealed, and away from heat and light, ethanol is expected to last indefinitely.
Where to buy ethanol solvent
As your leader in chemical supply, Lab Alley always keeps the essential solvents in stock and ready to ship as soon as you need it. We offer multiple concentrations, chemical grades, and sizes, from small to bulk, so we are always certain to have the option that best suits your industry needs. Ethanol is one of our specialties, offered in kosher, USDA organic, food and pharmaceutical grade.
Shop for ethanol today on Lab Alley’s easy-to-navigate website, with streamlined ordering, fast delivery, and excellent customer service. All of our products are sustainably sourced and of the highest quality.
