FUSEL OIL

Description

Fusel oil, refined, has a disagreeable odor. An appreciable percentage of fusel oil in a liquor has an adverse effect, while trace amounts are necessary for the characteristic flavor. This is produced as a by-product in the fermentation of starch- or sugarcontaining materials (potatoes, grapes, beetroots, grain); purified by rectification.

Chemical properties

Fusel oil, refned, has a disagreeable odor An appreciable percentage of fusel oil in a liquor has an adverse effect, while trace amounts are necessary for the characteristic favor TSCA Defnition 1990: A combination of amyl alcohols, primarily isoamyl alcohol and 2-methyl-1-butanol Other alcohols, acids, esters and aldehydes may also be present.

The Uses of FUSEL OIL

Flavoring agent, solvent, source of amyl alcohols.

Definition

A volatile, oily mixture consisting largely of amyl alcohols. Isoamyl alcohol (isobutyl carbinol) and active amyl alcohol (2-methyl-1butanol) are chief constituents. Ethyl, propyl, butyl, hexyl, and heptyl alcohols, as well as other alcohols, have been

Definition

A mixture of highmolecular- weight alcohols together with some esters and fatty acids, formed from alcoholic fermentation and obtained during distillation. It is used as a source of higher alcohols.

Definition

A mixture of highmolecularweight alcohols containingalso esters and fatty acids, sometimesformed as a toxic impurity inthe distillation products of alcoholicfermentation. It is used as a source ofhigher alcohols and in making paintsand plastics.

Preparation

As a by-product in the fermentation of starch- or sugar-containing materials (potatoes, grapes, beetroots, grain); purifed by rectifcation.

Taste threshold values

Taste characteristics at 60 ppm: fruity, alcoholic, sweet, apple with a brown fermented nuance.

General Description

A clear colorless liquid with a mild odor. Flash point 123°F. Vapors are heavier than air.

Air & Water Reactions

Flammable. Less dense than water and soluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

FUSEL OIL has a high degree of FUSEL OIL composition containing various alcohols. Flammable and/or toxic gases are generated by the combination of alcohols with alkali metals, nitrides, and strong reducing agents. They react with oxoacids and carboxylic acids to form esters plus water. Oxidizing agents convert them to aldehydes or ketones. Alcohols exhibit both weak acid and weak base behavior. They may initiate the polymerization of isocyanates and epoxides.

Hazard

Moderate fire risk. Toxic by ingestion and inhalation.

Health Hazard

Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water.

Safety Profile

May contain carcinogens. Experimental reproductive effects. Mutation data reported. Flammable liquid when exposed to heat or flame; can react vigorously with oxidizing materials. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and fumes. See also indvidual components.