CAS Number:
67-56-1
Chem/ IUPAC Name:
Methanol
Molecular Formula:
CH3OH
Molecular Weight:
32.04 g/mol
Uses:
Methanol is the simplest alcohol, a light, volatile, colorless, and flammable liquid with a distinctive odor. It is a key commodity chemical with a vast range of applications, primarily as a building block for other chemicals.
· Chemical Feedstock: Its primary use is as a raw material in the production of formaldehyde, acetic acid, and various plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
· Fuel: Used directly as a fuel (e.g., in racing cars), in fuel blends, and is the primary feedstock for producing biodiesel via transesterification and for advanced methanol-to-gasoline processes.
· Industrial Solvent: An effective solvent in paints, coatings, inks, and for general industrial cleaning and degreasing.
· Antifreeze: A component in automotive windshield washer fluid and other antifreeze mixtures.
· Energy Carrier: Gaining attention as a potential liquid carrier for hydrogen in the energy transition.
Origin:
Historically produced from the destructive distillation of wood (hence the name "wood alcohol"). Modern industrial production is almost exclusively via the catalytic hydrogenation of carbon monoxide from synthesis gas (syngas), derived from natural gas, coal, or biomass.
What does Methanol do in a formulation?
Its primary functions are:
- Chemical Intermediate / Raw Material
- Industrial Solvent
- Fuel / Fuel Component
- Antifreeze Agent
- Denaturant for ethanol
Safety Profile:
· Hazard Classification: Highly flammable liquid and vapor. Toxic if swallowed, in contact with skin, or if inhaled. Causes severe eye damage.
· Primary Hazards:
· High Flammability: Flash point of only 11-12°C (52-54°F). V