Pure Ethanol, Non-Denatured

Pure Undenatured Ethanol: Pure undenatured ethanol is ethyl alcohol with no additives or denaturants. It may also be referred to as pure alcohol, although “pure” can apply to any proof level. In practice, pure alcohol is considered “pure” regardless of water content (proof). Proof indicates the water content of the ethanol. Different proof levels are produced by adjusting the amount of water added during manufacturing. Pure ethanol, also known as beverage-grade alcohol, is typically 192 proof and derived from natural sources.

USP-Grade (Pure USP) Alcohol: Pure ethanol is also referred to as USP Alcohol because only undenatured ethanol may qualify for USP or NF certification. Not all pure ethanol is USP grade. Only 190 and 200 proof pure ethanol that meets or exceeds U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) standards can be certified.

Natural vs. Synthetic Ethyl Alcohol: Ethanol products may be produced from naturally derived sources, such as grain alcohol or grain neutral spirits, or through synthetic processes. While natural and synthetic ethanol are chemically equivalent, they may differ in the type and level of trace contaminants present, typically measured in parts per million (ppm).

Federal Excise Taxes & Permits Required: Pure ethanol is classified as taxable alcohol by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). Pure ethanol products may be purchased without a permit from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). Federal excise tax is assessed at $13.34 per proof gallon. A TTB Industrial Alcohol User Permit must be on file with Capitol Scientific to purchase pure ethanol without federal excise tax. The excise tax is paid immediately to the federal government after the sale. Capitol Scientific makes no profit from collecting, handling, or passing on the tax, nor does it retain any portion of the tax as a fee. Eligibility for exemption and issuance of the certificate are determined by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, not by Capitol Scientific.

Federal & State Law Requirements: Purchasers must be 21 years of age or older to buy undenatured ethanol products, and all applicable TTB federal, state, and local laws must be followed. Additional state or federal licensing may be required even when federal excise tax is included. Please contact us directly for assistance in determining your specific licensing requirements.