Simple test for insuring I actually have methanol?

[lupus]

I was sold 2x large plastic drums by a RC Toy shop, they were clearing out stock. It was sitting around for about 3mths, and Ive had it sitting for another 5 at least. The sold it as methanol, but the concern I have is that its not actually labelled. Is there some way I can determine if this is ethanol, methanol etc?

It smells vaguely sweet.


Alan

[hotrod]

That is an interesting question. Circumstantial evidence would be that it is methanol as the RC community uses methanol in most of their fuels. Ethanol and Methanol are very similar in density, and solubility in water so unless you have a way to accurately measure the density of the fuel it might be difficult to use that.

You can try to check with your local racing community to see if someone has a fuel tester that can quickly tell the difference between the two.

Ethanol has the characteristic odor of grain alcohol, and racing methanol is almost oderless. Some of it is scented with a grape like scent here in the U.S. but I can't really smell it very well so it is not a strong scent.

You could look up the physical characteristics, and see if something like freezing point would work.

Larry