They
are liquids used primarily as a topical antiseptic. They also have
multiple industrial and household uses. The term “rubbing alcohol” has
become a general non-specific term for either isopropyl alcohol
(isopropanol) or ethyl alcohol (ethanol) rubbing-alcohol products.
Bleaching and Disinfectants
Ethanol and isopropyl alcohol are both members of
the alcohol family and have similar disinfectant properties. Ethanol is
the type of alcohol present in alcoholic beverages. Isopropyl alcohol is
also known as isopropanol, 2-propanol or rubbing alcohol. When used as
disinfectants, both are typically at a concentration of 70 percent in
water.