Methanol, also known as wood alcohol, is a clear, colorless, flammable liquid with a slightly sweet odor. It is a vital industrial chemical used in the production of formaldehyde, acetic acid, and other chemicals. It is also used as a solvent, fuel, and antifreeze in various industries, including automotive, construction, and pharmaceuticals. Methanol is toxic when ingested and can cause blindness, respiratory problems, and even death. However, it is an essential industrial chemical with a wide range of applications.
Methanol has several uses in the energy industry. It is commonly used as a drilling fluid additive to increase the lubricity of the drilling mud and reduce the risk of sticking or seizing of the drilling equipment. Methanol is also used as an antifreeze agent to prevent the formation of hydrates, which can block pipelines and cause operational problems. Additionally, methanol is used as a solvent in the refining process to extract impurities from crude oil. It is also used as a fuel additive to reduce emissions and improve engine performance.
Methanol is used in water treatment as a solvent, antifreeze, and denaturant for ethanol. It is also used in the production of formaldehyde, which is a key ingredient in water treatment chemicals such as urea formaldehyde and melamine formaldehyde. Methanol can also be used in water treatment as a disinfectant, as it is capable of killing a wide range of bacteria and viruses. Additionally, methanol can be used to remove certain organic pollutants from wastewater by facilitating their biodegradation.
Methanol can be used in the pulp and paper industry as a solvent for lignin, which is a component of wood that needs to be removed during the papermaking process. Methanol can also be used as a pulp delignification agent, as well as a component of paper coatings and adhesives. In addition, methanol can be used to generate energy for pulp and paper mills, as it can be used as a fuel in boilers or cogeneration systems to produce steam and electricity.
CAS No.: 67-56-1