Sterile alcohols are essential for disinfection and contamination control in industries including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and cleanroom manufacturing. Two of the most commonly used options are 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and 70% Denatured ethanol (DE). However, while they share similar disinfecting capabilities, each has unique properties that help determine their suitability for specific applications.

This blog aims to give you clarity when considering the two alcohol-based disinfectants in the AGMA portfolio: 70% v/v Iso-propyl Alcohol in WFI Quality Water (IPA), and 70% v/v Denatured Ethanol in WFI Quality Water (DE).

Here’s what you need to know.

Composition


70% IPA is made from isopropanol diluted with WFI grade water. IPA is widely recognised for its efficacy against a broad range of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. The 70% concentration is optimal for penetrating cell walls and denaturing proteins, making it a powerful disinfectant.

70% Denatured Ethanol is similarly effective as a disinfectant but is denatured with additives to make it unsuitable for consumption. The material used to denature the ethanol used in AGMA products is the trade standard for the application and doesn’t compromise its effectiveness.

Key differences


DE and IPA have many similar chemical and physical properties. They’re equally compatible with commonly used surfaces, including metal, and also broadly alike in terms of biocidal efficacy. The main differences to note are:

  • Evaporation and staying power
    Because DE evaporates at a slightly faster rate than IPA (boiling point 78°C for ethanol and 82°C for IPA) IPA gains a slight edge in performance, as it remains on the surface being treated for longer.
  • Antibacterial and antiviral performance
    IPA has a slight efficacy advantage against some bacteria and viruses.  
  • Regulatory compliance
    In industries requiring strict sterility standards, such as pharmaceuticals, 70% IPA is often preferred. At present, ethanol (and therefore DE) isn’t regulated under either the EU or GB Biocidal Product Regulations. However, denatured ethanol is still widely used.

 

Applications


70% IPA is ideal for cleanrooms, biotechnology, and healthcare, where compliance and strict microbial control are essential.

70% Denatured Ethanol is often used in general-purpose cleaning, disinfecting surfaces in public areas, and other applications considered less critical.

 

Choosing the right sterile alcohol


The choice between 70% IPA and 70% Denatured Ethanol comes down to the specific needs of your application:

  • For cleanrooms, pharma cleaning, or sensitive equipment, 70% IPA is the gold standard.
  • For cost-effective and versatile disinfection in other environments, Denatured Ethanol is an effective option.

AGMA offers a wide range of 70% IPA and DE products in a choice of formats, including bottles, trigger sprays, and wipes. Shop the range here.

To request a quotation for AGMA sterile alcohol products, email us at sales@agma.co.uk or call us on +44 1434 320 598.