metanól

Metanol, also known as methyl alcohol, is a chemical compound with the formula CH3OH. It is the simplest alcohol and is a colorless, volatile, flammable liquid. Methanol occurs naturally in small amounts in the atmosphere and is produced by many organisms, including certain types of bacteria. Industrially, it is produced primarily from synthesis gas, a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. This process is usually carried out at high pressure and temperature over a catalyst.

Methanol is a versatile chemical intermediate and is used in the production of a wide range of other chemicals, including formaldehyde, acetic acid, and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE). Formaldehyde is a key component in the production of resins and plastics, while acetic acid is used in the manufacture of solvents and polymers. Methanol can also be blended with gasoline to create a fuel additive, which can improve octane rating and reduce emissions.

Despite its industrial importance, methanol is highly toxic. Ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption can lead to serious health consequences, including blindness and death. This is due to its metabolism in the body into formaldehyde and formic acid, which are corrosive and can damage vital organs. For this reason, methanol is often denatured with additives to make it unfit for human consumption. It is also a common component in antifreeze and some solvents.