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Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA)

CDEA is anhydrous ethanol used extensively in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial applications across East Africa.

Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA) serves as a critical solvent and active ingredient in various sectors due to its high purity and rapid evaporation characteristics.

Packaging

20L, 50L, 200L drums

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA)?

Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA) serves as a critical solvent and active ingredient in various sectors due to its high purity and rapid evaporation characteristics. Its predominant feature is the near absence of water content, distinguishing it from standard ethanol solutions and enabling precise performance in formulations requiring minimal moisture interference. CDEA is an indispensable chemical in pharmaceutical manufacturing, where solvent consistency impacts product efficacy and safety. The cosmetics industry similarly depends on it for clean formulations free from impurities that could affect texture and stability. Industrial cleaning applications leverage CDEA’s fast-drying and degreasing properties to remove contaminants without residue.

The product’s chemical nature — ethanol with minimal water, chemical formula C2H6O, CAS Number 64-17-5 — defines its broad utility. Visualized as a clear, colorless liquid with volatile, flammable characteristics, it requires careful handling but offers high versatility. Zenco Systems Ltd supplies CDEA throughout Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and the wider East African region, providing assured quality and dependable delivery. For businesses in these countries and neighboring markets, access to rigorously purified ethanol supports manufacturing, sanitation, and chemical processing needs under stringent quality demands.

Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA): Detailed Product Overview

Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA) is ethanol purified to contain minimal water content, typically less than 0.1%. This near-absolute ethanol form enhances its chemical stability and reduces interference from moisture-sensitive processes. Its purity level is essential in contexts where residual water could alter reactivity, dissolution rates, or product stability.

Ethanol’s molecular formula C2H6O indicates a structure conducive to both polar and non-polar solvent interactions. This dual affinity allows CDEA to dissolve a broad spectrum of compounds, from polar pharmaceutical ingredients to hydrophobic cosmetic oils. The chemically distilled aspect refers to the method of purification, which involves fractional distillation under controlled conditions to remove water and other volatiles. This process differs from standard ethanol distillation by targeting near-complete water removal, making CDEA suitable for applications demanding absolute ethanol quality.

Functionally, CDEA acts by breaking intermolecular bonds in solutes, facilitating their dissolution, and then evaporating cleanly without leaving residues. This is critical in pharmaceutical solvent roles, where residual moisture can degrade active pharmaceutical ingredients or influence dosage form consistency. Industrially, CDEA cleans surfaces by dissolving oils, greases, or contaminants, then rapidly evaporates to leave no trace.

Its volatility and flammability require safe storage in cool, ventilated areas away from sources of ignition. The clear colorless liquid is standardized by CAS Number 64-17-5 and chemical name Ethanol, ensuring consistency in procurement. Although exact purity and grade depend on batches and are confirmed with the supplier, Zenco Systems Ltd prioritizes delivering ethanol that meets industrial and pharmaceutical standards, supporting reliable supply chains across East Africa.

Applications and Uses of Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA)

Pharmaceutical Solvent

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, CDEA functions as a solvent for active ingredients and excipients, facilitating uniform mixing and formulation stability. Its near-absent water content ensures no hydrolytic degradation occurs during processing, critical for sensitive drugs and sterile products. Typical use concentrations vary based on the formulation but generally involve direct solvent applications or as a cosolvent in mixture preparation, where purity impacts yield and bioavailability.

Cosmetics Formulation

CDEA is widely used in cosmetic products such as perfumes, lotions, and aftershaves, where clean evaporation and absence of water help maintain product consistency and shelf life. It serves as a carrier solvent for fragrances and active skin ingredients, ensuring rapid drying to prevent greasy residues and microbial growth. Formulators rely on CDEA’s high purity to avoid destabilization of delicate emulsions or gels.

Industrial Cleaning

Industries utilize CDEA for effective cleaning and degreasing of machinery, electronic components, and sensitive equipment. Its ability to dissolve oils and evaporate without residue prevents damage and contamination. Typical applications involve wipe cleaning or spray techniques, where fast drying reduces downtime and contamination risk. This makes CDEA superior to aqueous cleaners in precision cleaning tasks.

Sanitizer Production

CDEA’s critical role in sanitizer production derives from ethanol’s antimicrobial properties combined with minimal water content, which enhances efficacy against bacteria and viruses. Formulated with specific aqueous percentages, sanitizers containing CDEA exhibit rapid microbial kill rates and skin-friendly evaporation characteristics. The product’s purity directly influences sanitizer stability and compliance with regulatory alcohol content requirements.

Chemical Synthesis

In chemical industries, CDEA is used as a reaction solvent or reagent in synthesis processes requiring anhydrous conditions. Its minimal moisture reduces side reactions and hydrolysis, improving yields and product purity. Typical uses include solvent mediums for organic reactions, recrystallization, and extraction, where controlling solvent water content is essential to reaction specificity and outcome.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Cleaning & Disinfection range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

High Purity for Sensitive Applications

The near-absolute purity of CDEA prevents water-related degradation in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, enabling consistent product performance and stability. This purity level is indispensable where moisture must be strictly controlled to maintain efficacy and shelf life, reducing processing errors or batch rejections.

Versatility Across Industries

CDEA’s chemical properties make it a universal solvent compatible with a wide range of organic and inorganic substances. Its use spans from industrial cleaning to chemical synthesis, offering customers a reliable multipurpose chemical that simplifies inventory and procurement.

Fast Evaporation and Residue-Free

Due to its low boiling point and absence of water, CDEA evaporates quickly and leaves no residue, an essential trait for cleaning delicate equipment or producing high-quality cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. This minimizes processing times and contamination risk.

Flammable but Manageable with Proper Handling

Though highly flammable, CDEA’s risks can be effectively managed through adherence to handling protocols and storage guidelines. This allows industries to leverage its benefits safely, preventing accidents while maintaining operational efficiency.

Packaging Information

Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA) in 20L, 50L, and 200L drums suitable for both small-scale and industrial customers. These packaging sizes facilitate efficient storage and transport under compliant conditions. For major industrial users, bulk supply arrangements can be discussed. All packaging complies with transport safety standards across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, ensuring smooth cross-border logistics within East Africa. Customers receive containers designed to maintain product integrity and ease of handling.

Standard formats: 20L, 50L, 200L drums

Storage and Handling

Store CDEA in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources due to its high flammability. Use tightly sealed original containers made of compatible materials such as steel or HDPE to prevent contamination and evaporation losses. Avoid storage near oxidizing agents or incompatible chemicals to reduce fire or reaction risks. Shelf life generally depends on container integrity and exposure to moisture; unopened containers can remain stable for extended periods but verify with supplier for batch-specific guidance. Always use proper grounding and bonding during transfers to prevent static discharge.

Safety Information

CDEA poses significant fire hazards owing to its volatility and flammability. Users must employ appropriate personal protective equipment such as flame-resistant gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection in poorly ventilated areas. In case of skin contact, wash immediately with water; if inhaled, move to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Proper disposal follows local regulations, typically as hazardous chemical waste. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from Zenco Systems Ltd provides comprehensive hazard classifications, spill response, and first-aid measures.

Technical Specifications

pHNeutral, approximately 7
GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
DensityApproximately 0.789 g/cm³ at 20 °C
FormulaC2H6O
Packaging20L, 50L, 200L drums
AppearanceClear colorless liquid
CAS Number64-17-5
SolubilityMiscible with water and most organic solvents
Chemical NameEthanol
Storage ConditionsCool, ventilated, away from ignition sources

Applications

  • Pharmaceutical solvent
  • Cosmetics formulation
  • Industrial cleaning
  • Sanitizer production
  • Chemical synthesis

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

pHNeutral, approximately 7
GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
DensityApproximately 0.789 g/cm³ at 20 °C
FormulaC2H6O
Packaging20L, 50L, 200L drums
AppearanceClear colorless liquid
CAS Number64-17-5
SolubilityMiscible with water and most organic solvents
Chemical NameEthanol
Storage ConditionsCool, ventilated, away from ignition sources

Product Features

  • - Anhydrous ethanol with minimal moisture
  • - Clear, colorless volatile liquid
  • - High solvent capacity for polar and non-polar substances
  • - Rapid evaporation leaving no residue
  • - Flammable - requires careful handling
  • - Stable under proper storage conditions

Industries Served

  • - Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • - Cosmetics and personal care
  • - Industrial cleaning and maintenance
  • - Sanitizer and disinfectant producers
  • - Chemical synthesis and processing

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA)

What distinguishes Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA) from regular ethanol?

CDEA has a significantly lower water content (typically less than 0.1%) compared to regular ethanol, making it almost water-free. This anhydrous characteristic is critical where moisture could interfere with the chemical or biological processes involved.

Can Zenco Systems Ltd supply Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA) outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies CDEA across East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and neighboring countries. Our logistics capabilities ensure compliant and timely cross-border deliveries.

What packaging sizes are available for CDEA?

CDEA is available in 20L, 50L, and 200L drums to accommodate various operational scales, from laboratory to industrial applications.

Is Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA) safe to handle onsite?

While safe when handled properly, CDEA is highly flammable. Operators must use appropriate PPE and follow safety guidelines including storage away from heat sources and proper ventilation.

What is the typical shelf life of CDEA when stored correctly?

When stored in sealed, compatible containers in cool, ventilated areas away from moisture and ignition sources, CDEA remains stable for several months to years. Confirm shelf life details with the supplier for specific batches.

Is CDEA suitable for producing food-grade or pharmaceutical products?

CDEA can be used as a solvent in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. Buyers should confirm grade and purity levels with Zenco Systems Ltd to ensure compliance with relevant food or pharma regulations.

Can Chemically Distilled Ethanol Anhydrous (CDEA) be diluted for use in sanitizer formulations?

Yes, CDEA is commonly diluted with water or other agents to achieve the target alcohol concentration in sanitizers, typically around 60-80% by volume, optimizing antimicrobial efficacy.

What factors should buyers check before ordering CDEA?

Buyers should verify purity, grade specifications, packaging options, delivery timelines, and compliance with local regulatory standards. Confirming the certificate of analysis at order time is critical.

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