Alcohol-based hand sanitizers have been widely used as an effective way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. The type of alcohol used in hand sanitizers can affect its effectiveness. According to the Drug Patent Watch [1], the most commonly used alcohols in hand sanitizers are ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, and n-propanol.

Ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol, is the most commonly used alcohol in hand sanitizers. It has been shown to be effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi [3]. Isopropyl alcohol is another commonly used alcohol in hand sanitizers, and it is effective against many microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses [3]. N-propanol is less commonly used in hand sanitizers, but it has been shown to be effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi [3].

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [2], hand sanitizers with at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol are recommended to effectively kill germs. The CDC also notes that hand sanitizers with lower concentrations of alcohol may not be as effective at killing germs.

In a study published in the Journal of Hospital Infection [3], researchers found that hand sanitizers containing 70% ethanol were more effective at reducing bacterial counts on hands compared to hand sanitizers containing 70% isopropanol. However, the study also found that both types of alcohol were effective at reducing bacterial counts on hands.

In conclusion, the type of alcohol used in hand sanitizers can affect its effectiveness. Ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, and n-propanol are the most commonly used alcohols in hand sanitizers, and they have all been shown to be effective against a wide range of microorganisms. Hand sanitizers with at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol are recommended to effectively kill germs. However, the effectiveness of hand sanitizers may also depend on other factors, such as the concentration of alcohol and the application method.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ALCOHOL
[2] https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/show-me-the-science-hand-sanitizer.html
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3735171/