Methanol

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Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, is a clear, colorless, volatile, and flammable liquid with a distinct alcoholic odor. It is the simplest alcohol and is widely used as an industrial solvent, antifreeze, fuel, and chemical feedstock. Methanol is highly miscible with water and many organic solvents and serves as a precursor to numerous chemicals including formaldehyde, acetic acid, and various plastic

Description

Primary Uses 

  1. Chemical Feedstock

    • Used extensively in the production of formaldehyde, acetic acid, and other chemicals.

    • Precursor in the manufacture of plastics, paints, adhesives, and explosives.

  2. Fuel and Energy

    • Used as a fuel in internal combustion engines and fuel cells.

    • Serves as a denaturant for ethanol and as a component in biodiesel production.

  3. Solvent Applications

    • Employed as a solvent for resins, dyes, adhesives, and inks.

    • Used in windshield washer fluids and antifreeze products.

  4. Pharmaceutical and Laboratory Use

    • Utilized as a solvent and reagent in pharmaceutical synthesis and laboratory settings.

Secondary Uses 

  1. Wastewater Treatment

    • Used as a carbon source in denitrification processes.

  2. Extractive Distillation

    • Applied in processes to separate aromatic hydrocarbons.

  3. Denaturing Agent

    • Added to ethanol to make it unfit for human consumption.

  4. Paint and Coatings Industry

    • Used as a solvent and diluent in various coatings and paint formulations.

  5. Automotive Industry

    • Used in windshield washer fluids and as a fuel additive.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Methanol

  • Common/Trade Name: Methanol, Methyl Alcohol

  • CAS Number: 67-56-1

  • HS Code: 2905.11.00

  • Synonyms: Wood alcohol; methyl hydrate; carbinol

Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Liquid

  • Color & Odor: Colorless; characteristic alcoholic odor

  • Boiling Point: 64.7°C

  • Melting Point: -97.6°C

  • Flash Point: 11°C (closed cup)

  • Density: 0.792 g/cm³ at 20°C

  • Solubility: Miscible with water and most organic solvents

Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • GHS Classification: Flammable liquid, Category 2; Acute toxicity, Category 3 (oral and inhalation)

  • Toxicity: Highly toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through skin

  • Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL - 200 ppm (260 mg/m³); ACGIH TLV - 200 ppm

Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources and incompatible materials

  • Container Type: Supplied in metal drums, plastic containers, or bulk tanks designed for flammable liquids

  • Shelf Life: Stable under proper storage conditions for several years

  • Handling Precautions: Use explosion-proof equipment; avoid inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact; wear appropriate PPE

 

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Complies with international chemical safety standards and regulations (e.g., REACH, OSHA, EPA)

  • Listed on major chemical inventories worldwide

 

Environmental & Health Impact

  • Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable

  • Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic life; avoid release to environment

  • Bioaccumulation: Low potential for bioaccumulation

  • Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

  • PPE Required: Chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, flame-resistant clothing, and respiratory protection as needed

  • Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; prevent vapor accumulation; ground and bond containers during transfer

  • Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed; store away from oxidizers and incompatible substances

 

First Aid Measures

  1. Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur

  2. Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash skin thoroughly with soap and water

  3. Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention

  4. Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical assistance

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Highly flammable liquid and vapor

  • Extinguishing Media: Use alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide extinguishers

  • Special Precautions: Evacuate area; wear full protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus

  • Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and formaldehyde