Safely Transporting Hazardous Alcohols with AsstrA

Ethanol or – as it often simply referred to, alcohol – is a monohydric substance with the formula C2H5OH. Under standard conditions it is a volatile, flammable, and colorless liquid. Ethyl alcohol is an indispensable component of a number of products including antiseptics and preservatives, fuels and solvents, as well as perfumes and alcohol.

The scope of application of an alcohol-containing liquid is determined by the percentage of alcohol and additives therein. A liquid with 100% alcohol is called absolute, as it does not contain water. Pure or rectified alcohol or is 95.57% ethanol and 4.43% water. Pure alcohol is used in the manufacture of antiseptics and disinfectants. Liquids with a high percentage (85-95%) of alcohol are used in the food and medical industries. Solutions that are 80-85% alcohol are regularly used in the chemical industry.

Russia remains the leading producer of ethyl alcohol, producing one sixth of the world's supply. It is considered a strategic product in Russia and, when exporting ethanol, carriers from the CIS must obtain permits according to Russian law. Cargoes are thoroughly checked during customs clearance, and inspections are also possible.

Alcohols are classified as dangerous goods that must be transported in accordance with established rules. Drivers and vehicles receive confirmation permits for the transport of dangerous goods. The AsstrA-Associated Traffic AG corporate group team and transport partners unconditionally comply with international ADR requirements.

The choice of rolling stock for the transport of ethyl alcohol is determined by the characteristics of the cargo. Transportation typically involves 30-31 m3 stainless steel tankers that are sealed, thermally insulated, and equipped with drainage devices.

Andrej Kleshch

“We have branches in 23 countries and a network of partners that we have been building for over 26 years. That means that for practically every type of transportation requirement, AsstrA customers have a wide range of contractors at their disposal. When clients need to transport ethyl alcohol from Russia to the European Union, as part of the deal we always provide pre-project consulting and expert support at every stage of the process. We can also provide a wide range of other services including customs support and financial guarantees for the transportation of excise goods,” says Andrej Kleshch, Head of the AsstrA Liquid Logistics Division