Ethanol

Ethanol can be used as a solvent for extracting hydrocarbons from oil sands and shale formations. It can also be used as a surfactant to reduce surface tension and improve oil recovery during enhanced oil recovery (EOR) operations. Ethanol can also be added to drilling fluids to improve their lubricity and reduce friction, which can reduce wear and tear on drilling equipment. Additionally, ethanol can be used as a fuel additive to improve the performance of gasoline and diesel fuels in the oil and gas exploration and production sectors.

In water treatment, ethanol can be used as a disinfectant and sanitizer due to its ability to denature and disrupt the cell membranes of microorganisms. It can be used as a substitute for traditional disinfectants such as chlorine or chlorine dioxide and is commonly used in the food and beverage industry to sanitize equipment and surfaces. Ethanol can also be used as a coagulant aid in water treatment processes to improve the removal of suspended solids and other impurities. Furthermore, ethanol can be used as a solvent for extracting organic contaminants from water and can be effective in removing pesticides and other pollutants from groundwater.

In the pulp and paper industry, ethanol can be used as a solvent for pulping and lignocellulose pre-treatment, which can help to reduce the energy consumption and environmental impact of these processes. Ethanol can also be used as a paper strength enhancer due to its ability to penetrate and swell cellulose fibers, leading to increased fiber bonding and paper strength. Additionally, ethanol can be used as a coating material for paper and paperboard, which can improve its barrier properties and resistance to moisture and grease. Ethanol can also be used as a solvent for removing ink and other coatings from recycled paper, which can help to improve the quality and yield of the recycled fibers.