The Probert Encyclopaedia of Science & Technology

METHYLATED SPIRITS

Methylated spirits is alcohol prepared for industrial use. In the painting trade Methylated spirits are used as a solvent for shellac in knotting, spirit varnishes and French polish. Mineralised Methylated spirits consists of 90% ethyl alcohol with 10% wood naptha added and a small quantity of mineral naptha added to make it taste unpleasant. Methylated spirits are a clear, colourless substance and so methyl violet is often added giving the characteristic purple colour.
Research Methylated Spirits