Methanol
Methanol, also known as Methyl Alcohol or Wood Alcohol, is a clear, colorless, volatile, and highly flammable liquid. It is primarily used as a solvent, fuel, and chemical feedstock. While similar in appearance to ethanol, methanol is toxic to humans if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
Methanol is the simplest alcohol, consisting of a methyl group linked to a hydroxyl group. It is a light, volatile, colorless, flammable liquid with a distinctive odor like that of ethanol.
Methanol is made from the destructive distillation of wood and is chiefly synthesized from carbon monoxide and hydrogen. Its principal uses are in organic synthesis, as a fuel, solvent, and antifreeze.
CAS Number: 67-56-1
Chemical Name: Methanol
IUPAC Name: Methanol
Chemical Formula: CH₄O (or CH₃OH)
Molecular Weight: 32.04 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Mild, alcohol-like odor
Solubility: Miscible with water and most organic solvents
Boiling Point: ~64.7°C
Melting Point: –97.6°C
Density: ~0.791 g/cm³ at 20°C
Flash Point: ~11°C (closed cup)
Vapor Pressure: ~96 mmHg at 20°C
Application in areas:
- Chemical Manufacturing
- Formaldehyde
- Acetic acid
- Methyl methacrylate
- Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) – a gasoline additive
- Solvent
- Used in paints, varnishes, inks, and adhesives
- Extraction and purification processes in pharmaceuticals and lab analysis
- Fuel and Energy
- Used as an alternative fuel or fuel additive
- Feedstock for biodiesel production (transesterification of fats/oils)
- Used in camping stoves and racing fuels
- Antifreeze and Windshield Washer Fluid
- Common in automotive and aerospace de-icing fluids
Safety & Handling:
- Hazard Class: Flammable Liquid (Class 3), Toxic
- UN Number: UN1230
GHS Classification:
- H225: Highly flammable liquid and vapor
- H301: Toxic if swallowed
- H311: Toxic in contact with skin
- H331: Toxic if inhaled
- H370: Causes damage to organs (e.g., eyes, central nervous system)
Toxicity Warning:
- Even small doses (10–30 mL) can cause blindness, nervous system damage, or death
- Use with extreme care in well-ventilated areas
PPE Requirements:
- Nitrile gloves
- Eye protection (goggles or face shield)
- Respiratory protection in confined or poorly ventilated areas
Storage Guidelines:
- Store in cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
- Keep away from heat, flames, oxidizing agents, and acids
- Ground containers during transfer to prevent static discharge