Is ethanol toxic to our lungs?

Question

recently i have switched to e10 ( cheaper ) fuel.Each time i fill up the smell of the ethanol seems to almost burn my lungs.

Just wondering if it's anymkore toxic than unleaded petrol.

Answer 1

Toxicity is relative, breathing in pure ethanol vs regular unleaded petrol is actually less harmful because pure ethanol will be absorbed straight into the bloodstream.  The pain you feel is actually the dehydration of your lung tissue because alcohols are dehydrating agents, with ethanol being extremely potent.  e10 is only 10% ethanol and 90% unleaded petrol, you shouldn't be smelling much of a difference at all.....  Most of it you should be inhaling is still unleaded, as for the fumes, at the bowser, you shouldn't be able to smell it that strongly to be burning your lungs unless you're head is right next to the car petrol cap or you're deliberately sniffing it.....

Answer 2

i use to know people that would inhale it and get high...so...with that said, probably.

Answer 3

No you will be fine, there is ethanol in every form of alcohol you buy at the store so I am sure you will be ok

Answer 4

YES IT IS VERY DANGEROUS

LEAVE IT OR YOU WILL DIE

Answer 5

Ethanol is just normal drinking alcohol. It's what's in beer, wine, spirits. In wine it's 10-15%. Have a smell of that, then, when that doesn't burn your lungs, ask yourself what what else might be burning your lungs. Like the long-chain petrochemicals for example.

The chemical formula for ethanol is C2H6O. When it burns, the equation is C2H5OH + 3 O2 → 2 CO2 + 3 H2O - ie. the only outputs are carbon dioxide, and water. both of which are odourless and tasteless.

Answer 6

Science education is really in a sad state.  

Ethanol is alcohol, only toxic in large doses.  Where do you live that ethanol makes gas cheaper?  Here it is only available in premium grade at a few locations.

Answer 7

any chemical is bad for your lungs, too much can wash out the surfactant (the stuff that holds your lungs open) and cause parts to collapse. it hurts when these areas are opening back up.