Monohydric Alcohols: C ₁ to C ₆

Abstract

This chapter reviews both linear and branched monohydric aliphatic C 1 to C 6 alcohols. The C 7 to C 20 monohydric alcohols are covered in Chapter 74. The low‐molecular‐weight alcohols, including methanol, ethanol, 1‐propanol, and isopropanol, are used extensively in industry. These alcohols exist as volatile liquids at ambient temperatures, and exposure can occur in both industrial and nonindustrial environments. The C 1 to C 6 monohydric alcohols are flammable, but not reactive. The health effects in laboratory animals and in humans for the C 1 to C 6 alcohols are reviewed, as well as workplace exposure methods and biomonitoring and/or biomarker information.