methanoli

Note: In English, the substance is commonly known as methanol (also methyl alcohol); "methanoli" is a spelling variant used in some languages.

Methanol is the simplest alcohol and a common industrial chemical. Its chemical formula is CH3OH. It is a colorless, volatile liquid with a mild odor. It is miscible with water and many organic solvents, and it boils at 64.7°C. It is highly flammable and can form explosive vapour–air mixtures.

Industrial methanol is produced primarily from synthesis gas, a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen generated by steam reforming of natural gas, coal, or biomass. The gas is catalytically converted to methanol by the reaction CO + 2 H2 → CH3OH. Methanol can also be obtained from biomass gasification. Historically it was produced by destructive distillation of wood (wood alcohol).

Methanol is a key chemical feedstock. It is used to manufacture formaldehyde, acetic acid, and many derivatives such as methyl esters. It serves as a solvent in various industrial processes and is employed in antifreeze formulations and windshield de-icers. It has also been used as a fuel in some blends, though its use as a motor fuel is limited by toxicity and emissions concerns.

Exposure to methanol can be dangerous. Ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption can cause metabolic acidosis, vision loss, and even death. Methanol is metabolized to formaldehyde and formic acid. Treatments in poisoning cases include fomepizole or ethanol to inhibit alcohol dehydrogenase, along with supportive care. Proper handling, ventilation, leak detection, and storage controls are required by safety regulations.