Ethanol (ethyl alcohol): Environmental effects
Description
At low concentrations and amounts, ethanol is rapidly metabolised without apparent harm. At higher concentrations, such as a result of leaks or spills, ethanol can have acute effects on a wide range of biota, where it may cause microbial death (ethanol is a disinfectant).
Entering the environment
Ethanol is carried in the water and air. It is soluble in water and is volatile, so it can be carried quite long distances.
Where it ends up
Ethanol will oxidise quickly (less than a few days), with carbon dioxide and water as the final products. However, ethanol can act as a precursor, leading to the formation of photochemical smog. Water or snow can wash the ethanol out of the atmosphere, but due to its volatility, ethanol will quickly re-enter the vapour phase. Ethanol present in soil or water will decompose in the presence of oxygen. Ethanol is a good nutrient and energy source for microbes. In the absence of oxygen, this can lead to the formation of methane.
Environmental guidelines
Currently, there are no Australian environmental guidelines for ethanol.
Key
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