Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, wood alcohol, or wood spirit, is a chemical compound with various industrial applications. Here are some of its uses:
- Chemical Synthesis: Methanol serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various organic chemicals, including formaldehyde, acetic acid, methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), and dimethyl carbonate (DMC).
- Fuel: It is utilized as a fuel or fuel additive in internal combustion engines, particularly in methanol fuel cells, biodiesel production, and as a gasoline extender.
- Solvent: Methanol is commonly used as a solvent in industrial processes, such as paint and coating formulations, chemical synthesis, and cleaning products. It is valued for its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds.
- Antifreeze: It is used as an antifreeze agent in automotive windshield washer fluid and as a component in antifreeze formulations for cooling and heating systems.
- Chemical Intermediates: Methanol is an important intermediate in the production of formaldehyde, acetic acid, methyl methacrylate (MMA), and other chemicals used in plastics, resins, and pharmaceuticals.
- Denaturant: Methanol is added to ethanol to denature it, making it unsuitable for consumption, and is used in various industrial and household products, including solvents, fuels, and cleaning agents.
- Clean Energy: It is used as a feedstock in the production of hydrogen and synthetic natural gas (SNG) through processes such as steam reforming and gasification, contributing to clean energy initiatives.
- Alcohol Industry: Methanol is used in the production of alcoholic beverages, such as fortified wines and spirits, as a denaturant or solvent in extraction processes.
