Methanol (Methyl Alcohol)

Overview

Methanol (CAS No: 67-56-1), also known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, is a colorless, volatile, and flammable liquid with a mild alcohol odor. It is widely used across industrial sectors as a solvent, antifreeze, fuel additive, and as a key raw material for formaldehyde and various chemical derivatives.

Methanol mixes completely with water and most organic solvents. Industrially, it is commonly produced from synthesis gas (syngas) derived from natural gas, coal, or biomass. It is used extensively in formaldehyde production, resins, solvents, antifreeze formulations, methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) production, biodiesel transesterification, and as a hydrogen carrier in emerging energy applications.

Applications

Methanol serves a broad range of industrial and commercial uses:

Technical Specifications

Safety Information

Hazard Symbols and Statements

Flammable Toxic if ingested Central nervous system effects

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
• Chemical goggles or face shield
• Organic vapor respirator for high vapor concentrations
• Chemical-resistant apron or workwear
• Adequate ventilation or local exhaust
• Non-sparking, explosion-proof tools

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, well-ventilated, fire-safe area
• Keep away from ignition sources and sparks
• Keep tightly closed in original containers, protected from sunlight
• Store separately from oxidizing agents
• Storage temperature: 15–25°C
• Grounding/bonding required to prevent static buildup

Firefighting

• Suitable extinguishing media: Dry chemical, CO₂, alcohol-resistant foam
• Water spray may be used for cooling
• Firefighting must be performed by trained personnel with proper respiratory protection
• Use dry chemical or CO₂ for small fires
• Use water spray or alcohol-resistant foam for large fires
• Cool containers with water during firefighting

Handling and Storage

Handling

• Ensure containers are tightly closed during handling
• Grounding/bonding required to prevent static accumulation
• Provide adequate ventilation in handling areas
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking while handling
• Containers must bear "Flammable Liquid" labels
• Firefighting equipment must be available in handling areas

Storage

• Store in stainless steel, polyethylene, or glass containers
• Post "Flammable Liquid" signs in storage areas
• Use appropriate breathing vents on storage tanks
• Use explosion-proof electrical systems for large quantities
• No smoking in storage areas
• Segregate from acids and oxidizers
• Install vapor detectors in storage areas

Spill Response

• Remove all ignition sources
• Use appropriate respiratory protection
• Absorb spills with sand, chemical absorbent, or other inert materials
• Dispose of absorbed material properly
• Wash spill area with plenty of water and detergent
• Obtain professional cleanup services for large spills
• Prevent spills from entering drains or waterways

Regulatory Information

GHS Classification

• Flammable Liquid Category 2
• Acute Toxicity (Oral) Category 3
• Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) Category 1

Key Regulations

• REACH: Registered
• CLP: Compliant
• OSHA: Subject to Hazard Communication Standard
• NFPA 704: Health 1, Flammability 3, Reactivity 0

International Listings

• EU: Listed in EINECS/REACH
• USA: Listed by EPA and FDA for defined applications
• China: Listed in IECSC
• Japan: Listed in ISHL

Environmental Information

Environmental Impact

Methanol is readily biodegradable and has low persistence in the environment. It degrades in air through photochemical reactions and is rapidly diluted and biodegraded in water and soil.

Biodegradation

• Air: Photochemical degradation, half-life typically 1–7 days
• Water: Readily biodegradable; rapid dilution and microbial degradation
• Soil: Rapid volatilization and microbial degradation

Waste Management

• Classified as hazardous waste
• Small quantities: Treat via biological treatment at licensed facilities
• Large quantities: Incinerate at licensed hazardous waste facilities
• Dispose in accordance with local regulations

Frequently Asked Questions

How is methanol produced?

Industrial methanol is primarily produced from syngas (CO, CO₂, H₂) via catalytic synthesis. Feedstocks include natural gas, coal, or biomass. Downstream, it is converted to formaldehyde, acetic acid, MTBE, and other key intermediates.

Can methanol be used as a fuel?

Yes. Methanol can be used in blends, dedicated engines, and fuel cells. It is also a hydrogen carrier for reformer-based systems and a component in fuel additives (e.g., MTBE).

Is methanol toxic?

Yes. Methanol is toxic if ingested, inhaled in high concentrations, or absorbed in significant amounts. It can cause severe health effects including visual impairment. Always follow safety data sheet (SDS) guidance.