CAS: 67-56-1
The methanol (wood alcohol), it is a colorless, volatile liquid used in many industries. It is very strange for an alcohol: it is not at all toxic compared to other alcohols and, in addition to being very volatile, it is also a solvent and raw material for many, many chemicals, such as formaldehyde acetate and methyl methacrylate. The first industrial production dates back several hundred years, when it arose from the destructive distillation of wood. It has long been used in the chemical industry, particularly in agriculture: it improves the efficacy of plant protection products, helps eradicate pests and is a solvent in foliar formulations for fertigation.
Key Properties of Methanol
● CAS: 67-56-1
● Molecular Formula: CH4O
● Boiling Point: 64.7 °C
● Density: 0.791 g/cm³
● Flash Point: 11.8 °C
● Solubility: Miscible with water, ethanol, and diethyl ether
Physical Characteristics
● Color: Colorless (transparent)
● Odor: Sweet, characteristic smell
● Physical state: Liquid
● Viscosity: Low viscosity (fluid liquid)
● Volatility: Highly volatile (evaporates quickly at room temperature)
● Clarity: Clear liquid, free of visible impurities
Applications in Agriculture
Regarding the Agriculture sector, methanol is mainly used as a solvent and as a feedstock in the production of herbicides, insecticides, fertilisers. This is a solvent to refine the effect of agricultural solutions for better deliveryof active portion of the products to the crops, hence increasing their production and yield.
Other Significant Industries
● Personal Care: Serves as a solvent in various cosmetic formulations.
● Construction: Utilized in producing adhesives and sealants for construction materials.
● CASE: Methanol functions as a solvent and reactant in the production of coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers, as stated.
● Pharmaceutical: Acts as a solvent and precursor in drug formulation.
● Hygiene and Industrial Cleaning: Used in cleaning agents and disinfectants.
● Plastics and Rubber: Acts as a feedstock for producing formaldehyde, an important plastic polymer.
● Petroleum and Gas: Employed in refining processes and as a blending agent for fuels.