Metanolom

Metanolom, also called methanol or methyl alcohol, is the simplest alcohol and a colorless, volatile liquid. Its chemical formula is CH3OH and its molar mass is 32.04 g/mol. It boils at 64.7°C and is miscible with water. Methanol is highly flammable and easily handled in industry, but it is toxic to humans and animals.

Production and sources

Industrial methanol is produced primarily by catalytic hydrogenation of carbon monoxide and hydrogen to form methanol, using copper- or other metal-based catalysts at elevated pressure. The synthesis gas is typically derived from natural gas, coal, or biomass. Methanol can also be produced via alternative routes such as the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide, which is an area of active research and development.

Applications

Methanol serves as a major chemical feedstock. It is used to produce formaldehyde, acetic acid, and various other chemicals, and it is a precursor for fuels and fuel additives such as methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) and dimethyl ether (DME). It is also employed as a solvent in industrial and laboratory settings and has historically been used as an antifreeze and a fuel.

Safety and health effects

Methanol is toxic upon ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption. In humans, methanol metabolism yields formaldehyde and formic acid, which can cause metabolic acidosis, vision loss, and death at sufficient doses. Treatment for methanol poisoning may involve antidotes such as fomepizole or ethanol to inhibit methanol metabolism, supportive care, and, in severe cases, hemodialysis.

Environmental and regulatory notes

Methanol is readily biodegradable and does not bioaccumulate significantly, but spills can contaminate water and pose hazards to aquatic life. Due to its toxicity and flammability, methanol is subject to safety, storage, and handling regulations in most countries.