Tag: 200 proof

While the strongest consumer-grade spirits like Everclear reach approximately 95-96% ABV, achieving a true 100% alcohol by volume requires specialized lab and industrial techniques. This nearly water-free substance, known as absolute ethanol, is extremely toxic, highly flammable, and is not intended for human consumption.

While standard spirits hover around 40% ABV, 100% alcohol, known as absolute alcohol or anhydrous ethanol, is a highly purified form of ethanol with virtually no water content. It is never intended for human consumption due to extreme potency and the industrial processes used to create it. This specialized substance serves critical roles in scientific and industrial applications where water is an impurity.

Due to a scientific phenomenon known as an azeotrope, the highest proof alcohol can get through standard distillation is 192, or 96% alcohol by volume (ABV). This chemical property means that ethanol and water will vaporize and condense at the same ratio beyond this point, preventing further concentration.

In the United States, a 200 proof rating signifies 100% alcohol by volume (ABV), based on a simple doubling of the alcohol percentage. This level of purity, also known as absolute ethanol, is a highly volatile substance rarely available for direct consumer purchase due to its nature and flammability.