Expert: Dr. Henry Boyter, Jr. - 3/1/2006

Question
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Followup To
Question -
Hello,

What is the proper fuel for use in a Bunsen burner/alcohol lamp, and where can one obtain it?  I've been told ethyl alcohol, or denatured ethyl alcohol is correct, but have been unable to source either chemical... or perhaps I'm asking for the wrong substance when I ask for either of these.  I was able to find a product called Marine Stove Alcohol.  The MSDS for the product lists two ingredients: 45-55% isopropyl alcohol, and 45-55% methanol.  Is this alright, or will I end up with poisonous vapors, an explosion, or some other unfortunate outcome?  
I'm inquiring about this because I have a Bunsen burner that I need to use (regularly) for working with wax, and would like to remain healthy.
Answer -
You have mentioned two different types of burners.  A bunsen burner is run on propane or natural gas (camp stove gas) and an alcohol lamp is run on mixtures of methyl, ethyl, and isopropyl alcohols.  My suggetion is that if you are not an expert in using these, you should not be using them.  They are very dangerous.  My suggestion, if big enough, is to get a self contained torch pen at Lowes/Home Depot to use.  They are self contained and disposable.  Another option is a hot plate and this is my recommendation.  Either idea is much safer than what you mention.  All except the hotplate will put out fumes, just like a fireplace or wood stove will put out fumes.

Thanks for the information.  I was under the (apparently mistaken) impression that the device was referred to as a Bunsen burner or alcohol lamp... it was a standard piece of lab equipment.  It is comprised of a  glass resevoir of about 2-4 oz. capacity (typically bulb-like, flat bottomed for stability, as this acts as the stand as well), with a metal cap threaded on to the top of the resevoir, through which a cotton wick is threaded.  Often they have a metal cap for extinguishing the flame.  They're fueled with alcohol (as you mention above), and provide a soft, relatively gentle flame.
Unfortunately, neither a hot plate nor propane, butane, or other pressurized gas torches meet my needs, as the torches are too hot, and the hot plate to indiscriminate (not enough ability to focus).
So my question is perhpas better phrased as "Is the fuel which I have obtained (described above, 45-55% isopropyl alcohol & 45-55% methanol) a safe and proper fuel fo r the device I've descriped above.

Answer
The mixture should work in an alcohol lamp.  First try it in an open space with only enough in it to moisten the wick, just in case.  My advice is not to use it.  They can be dangerous.

You mention focusing.  The flame you get with this will be anything but focused.  it will look in shape like the flame from a kerosene lamp.  It may even flicker.