Methylated Spirit

Methylated Spirit consists of ordinary alcohol to which has been added 10 per cent. of wood spirits (methyl alcohol, q.v.). It is then allowed to be sold duty free, and is hence much cheaper than pure alcohol. It cannot be employed in preparations of consumable articles, but is largely used as a solvent for gums, resins, etc.; as a preservative; for use in spirit lamps; and instead of alcohol for all purposes where the presence of the wood spirit is not objectionable. Strong representation made in 1853 to Government showing the desirability of allowing alcohol to be used duty free for manufacturing purposes, led to the introduction of methylated spirit.