Alcohol Distillation and Its Health Effects
Alcohol distillation is one of the oldest known industrial processes. It involves vaporising water before condensing it back into liquid state to produce spirits; distillation also provides fuel alcohol for use in internal combustion engines. Distillation has long been used recreationally as well as being an anesthetic (a drug which causes unconsciousness or reduced pain perception), wound cleaner, and antiseptic (an agent which kills or prevents bacteria growth on body tissues or surfaces).
Alcohol concentration in vapor state is greater than in its source liquid mixture, increasing with each subsequent condensation process (an ongoing series of evaporation and condensation). Re-condensation further boosts this increase. To achieve specific vapor-liquid ratios at each stage of operation by selecting appropriate reflux ratios.
Note that although ethanol in distilled spirits such as vodka is a pure and crystalline liquid, it still contains chemical compounds known as congeners which contribute to unpleasant odours and flavors in some drinks. These include poisonous chemicals like methanol and amyl alcohol.
Home distillers must be aware of these dangers and keep a fire extinguisher close at hand. Furthermore, their apparatus should be properly insulated in order to prevent an increase in internal pressure caused by the release of flammable vapors; often this can be accomplished by connecting their apparatus directly with atmospheric air through pipes or tubes packed with materials that remove unwanted air components from their system.