Methanol CAS 67-56-1

Introduction to Methanol

Methanol is the simplest saturated primary alcohol, consisting of a methyl group bonded to a hydroxyl functional group. It is a colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic pungent alcoholic odor at room temperature, fully miscible with water, alcohols, ethers and most polar organic solvents. It is primarily produced industrially via catalytic hydrogenation of carbon monoxide, with purification through distillation to achieve target purity grades.

As one of the most widely produced bulk chemicals, methanol acts as both a high-solvency process fluid and a foundational building block for hundreds of downstream chemical products. It exhibits high volatility and low boiling point, making it suitable for fast-drying solvent applications and low-temperature reaction systems.

Methanol Chemical & Physical Properties

Applications of Methanol

Chemical synthesis feedstock: The largest industrial use is for producing formaldehyde, acetic acid, methyl methacrylate, chloromethanes and methylamines. It also serves as a methylating agent in organic synthesis for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and specialty chemicals.

Industrial solvent and diluent: Used as a fast-evaporating solvent for paints, inks, varnishes and adhesive formulations. It also functions as an extraction solvent for natural products, pharmaceutical active ingredients and oilseed processing.

Fuel and energy applications: Blended into gasoline as an oxygenate to improve octane rating and reduce exhaust emissions. It also serves as a feedstock for biodiesel production and as an alternative fuel for internal combustion engines.

Other industrial uses: Functions as an antifreeze for pipelines and windshield washer fluids, a denaturant for industrial ethanol, and a process fluid in semiconductor manufacturing and surface cleaning operations.

Storage & Safety Precautions for Methanol

• Store in tightly sealed steel containers in a cool, well-ventilated flammable liquid warehouse. Keep far away from open flame, heat sources and ignition sources. Bond and ground all transfer equipment to prevent static spark buildup.
• Handle as a highly flammable and toxic material. Wear chemical splash goggles, nitrile gloves and flame-resistant clothing during bulk transfer. Work in explosion-proof ventilated areas to avoid vapor inhalation, which causes central nervous system depression and optic nerve damage.
• Keep separated from strong oxidizers, acids and alkali metals. Never use near open flame or hot surfaces. Vapors are heavier than air and may travel long distances to ignition sources and flash back.

Methanol FAQ

Q: What are the main industrial uses of Methanol?

A: It is a core feedstock for formaldehyde and chemical synthesis, a fast-drying industrial solvent, a gasoline oxygenate and fuel component, and an extraction agent for pharmaceutical and natural product processing.

Q: What storage conditions are required for Methanol?

A: Store sealed in cool, ventilated flammable liquid storage. Keep away from heat, flame and oxidizers. Bond all transfer equipment to prevent static ignition.

Q: Is Methanol safe for human contact or consumption?

A: No. Methanol is toxic if ingested, inhaled or absorbed through skin, causing nervous system damage and vision impairment. Always use proper PPE and handle in well-ventilated areas.