Fusel Oil

What Is Fusel Oil?

Fusel oil is also known as fusel alcohols or higher alcohols and it is a mixture of heavier, volatile alcohols formed during fermentation. These typically include: Isoamyl alcohol, Propanol, Butanol, Trace esters and aldehydes. It appears as a pungent, oily, immiscible layer separated during ethanol purification.

The Applications of Fusel Oil:

  1. Solvents: In paints, varnishes, and cleaners
  2. Plasticizers: Precursor for acetate and ester production
  3. Perfumery: Base for amyl acetate and banana essence
  4. Pharmaceuticals: Raw material for synthesis
  5. Fuel: Can be blended in small quantities with fuel
  6. Disinfectants: As an alcohol base in formulations.