Ethanol is a versatile chemical with a wide range of uses, including:

1. Fuel: Ethanol is commonly used as a fuel in mixtures of finished motor gasoline, with most of the gasoline sold in the United States containing ethanol. Ethanol is also used as a fuel in flexible fuel vehicles, designed to operate on any blend of gasoline and ethanol up to 83% .

2. Industrial Chemical: Ethanol is an important industrial chemical used as a solvent, in the synthesis of other organic chemicals, and as an additive to automotive gasoline. It is also used as a precursor for other organic compounds such as ethyl halides, ethyl esters, diethyl ether, acetic acid, and ethyl amines.

3. Antiseptic and Disinfectant: Ethanol is used in medical wipes and most commonly in antibacterial hand sanitizer gels as an antiseptic for its bactericidal and anti-fungal effects.

4. Solvent: Ethanol has widespread use as a solvent of substances intended for human contact or consumption, including scents, flavorings, colorings, and medicines.

5. Job Creation: Ethanol production creates jobs in rural areas where employment opportunities are needed.

6. Reducing Emissions: Ethanol helps reduce emissions when used in low-level blends, such as E10 (10% ethanol, 90% gasoline), E15 (10.5% to 15% ethanol), or E85 (flex fuel) .

7. Energy Security: Using ethanol and other alternative fuels and advanced technologies to reduce petroleum consumption continues to strengthen national security and reduce transportation energy costs for businesses and consumers.

In summary, ethanol is used as a fuel, industrial chemical, antiseptic and disinfectant, solvent, and for job creation and reducing emissions and energy security.