Description
 | Safety Data Sheet |
Description:
Methanol is commonly used as an intermediate in chemical synthesis, as a solvent, antifreeze, and as an environmentally friendly fuel source. Methanol, with a chemical formula of CH3OH, is produced through the destructive distillation of wood and is colorless, volatile, toxic, and flammable. Methanol is also known as wood alcohol, methyl alcohol, and wood spirit.
Benefits
- Contrasted to fuel, Methanol:
- Is more environmentally friendly
- Has a lower flammability risk
- Can be used to make hydrogen
- Easier to store than hydrogen
Applications
- Methanol is often used in laboratories as a solvent
- Methanol can be converted into formaldehyde to make paint, plastics, and explosives.
- It can be used as a fuel to dramatically reduce emissions of toxins and produce biodiesels. The Military Industry uses methanol as a fuel for camping and boating.
- Small doses of methanol can be added to wastewater to convert harmful nitrates to safer nitrogen.
