Pyroxylic Spirit

Pyroxylic Spirit, also called WOOD-SPIRIT and WOOD-NAPHTHA, is a mixture of acetone, methyl-alcohol, acetate of methyl, &c., obtained by the destructive distillation of wood in the manufacture of Pyroligneous Acid (q.v.). Many of its properties are the same as those of common alcohol; and now, notwithstanding a long opposition from the Revenue Board, its manufacture and importation are regularly allowed. It is of nearly equal value to alcohol in making varnishes, as it dissolves the resins, oils, and other similar substances. It has a peculiar naphtha-like odour, which is inseparable from it, and prevents its use as a potable spirit at present; but it is asserted that some makers produce it almost odourless, and that it sometimes takes the place of common alcohol in the manufacture of cheap perfumes. It is used in making Methylated Spirit (q.v.).