Öljymetanoli

Öljymetanoli is a term used in Nordic-language technical literature to refer to systems in which methanol is present with oil. It is not a single pure compound; rather, it denotes a methanol-containing oil phase encountered in industrial processes such as biodiesel production, where oils or fats are reacted with methanol in the presence of a catalyst to form fatty acid methyl esters and glycerol. In such processes, methanol is typically used in excess, and a two-phase mixture can form, with a methanol-rich phase and an oil-rich phase. The exact composition depends on the type of oil and process conditions; methanol has a boiling point of 64.7°C and is miscible with water, but immiscibility with certain oils leads to phase separation at room temperature, which can be affected by temperature and pressure.

Applications include serving as a solvent, reactant, or processing aid in oil refining and biodiesel production, and in some cases as a cleaning or degreasing solvent for oil-containing systems. However, it can also appear as residual oil contaminated with methanol after separation steps.

Safety and handling: methanol is highly toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin; it is also highly flammable. Work with proper ventilation, spill containment, flame-proof equipment, and personal protective equipment. Storage in approved containers away from heat sources is essential. Environmental concerns include toxicity to aquatic life; leaks should be contained and reported.

See also: methanol, biodiesel, transesterification, biodiesel production, methanol safety.