SDA 3-A Denatured Ethanol
Methanol-denatured 190 proof ethanol — the industrial workhorse of the SDA family. Produced from our ultrapure Michigan corn ethanol and denatured on-site at our Marysville, Michigan facility, SDA 3-A delivers a consistent, tax-exempt solvent for chemical and industrial processing. Also coming soon in 200 proof.
What Is SDA 3-A?
SDA 3-A is a specially denatured alcohol formula authorized under 27 CFR Part 21: to every 100 gallons of ethanol, 5 gallons of methanol are added. The result behaves almost identically to pure ethanol in most industrial processes, while qualifying for federal excise tax exemption — a major cost advantage for manufacturers.
Because Pristine Alcohol starts from some of the purest 190 proof ethanol produced in the United States — 100% stainless steel equipment, 100% Michigan corn — our SDA 3-A delivers lot-to-lot consistency that industrial buyers can build processes around.
Applications
⚗ Chemical Processing
Reaction and process solvent for chemical manufacturing, intermediates, and formulation work.
🎨 Coatings & Inks
Carrier and thinner for coatings, inks, and finishes requiring a clean, consistent alcohol cut.
🧷 Industrial Cleaning
High-purity degreasing and cleaning solvent for manufacturing operations.
⚙ Extraction & Processing
Solvent for extractions, separations, and general plant processing.
TTB Compliance
SDA 3-A requires a TTB industrial alcohol user permit to purchase. Pristine Alcohol is a TTB-permitted distilled spirits plant (DSP); we handle all denaturing and documentation on-site and can assist customers with permit applications and compliance requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SDA 3-A denatured with?
SDA 3-A is denatured by adding 5 gallons of methanol to every 100 gallons of ethanol, per the TTB formula in 27 CFR Part 21.
What is the difference between SDA 3-A and SDA 3-C?
The denaturant. SDA 3-A uses methanol; SDA 3-C uses isopropyl alcohol. Both perform similarly as solvents — 3-C is often preferred where methanol toxicity is a concern.
Do I need a TTB permit to buy SDA 3-A?
Yes. Specially denatured alcohol requires a TTB industrial alcohol user permit. Our team assists with applications and ongoing compliance.
Is SDA 3-A available in 200 proof?
Yes — 200 proof SDA 3-A (under 0.5% water) is launching soon from our Marysville facility. Request a quote to reserve first-production allocation.