I fully agree with the hazards of children (and others) drinking
methylated alcohol, as described in yesterdays 050324 MMDigest.

Methylated spirit is called "spiritus" here in the Netherlands, and it
consists of 15% water, 5% of methanol and 80% ethanol (the best part).
The spirit is dyed blue to purple here, obviously like in the USA.
In other European countries it may not be coloured: In France it is
clear, and of 90% strength.  That's why I always buy some litres of
it when I am in France -- it makes a far better wood polish!

Alcohol is very hygroscopic.  It will attract at least 4% of water from
the environment once you open the bottle, so I think that methylated
spirit cannot be stronger than 96 percent, even in the USA.

Cheers from the Netherlands, and Happy Easter!

Hans van Oost

 [ In his other secret life ('the day job'), Hans is a pediatrician
 [ treating sick children.  -- Robbie