Denaturised is an adjective used to describe a substance that has undergone denaturation, a process that alters its natural state or properties. When a substance is denaturised, it typically means that it has been rendered unsuitable for its original purpose, usually through the addition of certain chemicals or physical treatments.
Denaturation is commonly applied to various substances, such as proteins, enzymes, or alcohols. For instance, denaturised proteins have undergone structural changes that disrupt their native conformation, often resulting in a loss of their biological activity. This can occur due to factors like changes in temperature, pH, or exposure to chemicals or radiation.
When referring to denaturised alcohols, it usually implies the addition of a denaturant, a substance that makes the alcohol unfit for consumption, typically by imparting an unpleasant taste or smell. These denaturants often include substances like methanol or denatonium benzoate.
Denaturised substances are commonly used in various industries. Denatured alcohol, for example, finds applications in manufacturing, cleaning agents, or as a fuel source due to it being less expensively taxed. Similarly, denaturised enzymes are used in industrial processes where their activity needs to be controlled or confined to specific conditions.
In summary, denaturised describes a substance that has undergone a process causing it to lose its original properties or functionality, often rendering it unsuitable for its intended use.
