What are Applications of Methanol in Real Life?

Methanol has applications in several industries, including automotive, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, energy, and manufacturing. Methanol is used in different industry because it is flexible and resourceful. Methanol has different real-life applications in different fields. Some of the applications of methanol in real life are given below.

• Fuel for Vehicles
• Chemical Synthesis
• Solvent
• Antifreeze Agent
• Energy Storage and Generation

Methanol as a Fuel for Vehicles

Methanol is used as another fuel in internal combustion engines and fuel cells. In regions like China, where methanol production is very high, methanol-powered vehicles have acquired resistance due to governmental support and environmental considerations. Methanol fuel lowers the emission of pollutants like carbon monoxide and particulate matter as compared to traditional gasoline.

Methanol in Chemical Synthesis

Methanol serves as a derivative in the production of various chemicals. Formaldehyde, acetic acid, and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) are some examples of compounds synthesized from methanol. These chemicals have their applications in industries such as construction, automotive, and pharmaceuticals, contributing to the production of essential consumer goods.

Methanol as a Solvent

Methanol has an ability to dissolve in wide range of substances. Due to this property methanol is widely used as a solvent in industrial processes. It is used in the manufacturing of paints, coatings, adhesives, and cleaning agents. Methanol-based solvents provides advantages such as low toxicity and are highly evaporative, making them suitable for various applications where purity and fast evaporation are required.

Methanol as an Antifreeze Agent

Methanol is commonly added to automotive antifreeze agents to prevent engine coolant from freezing in cold temperatures. It lowers the freezing point of coolant liquids which protects engine components from damage. Methanol-based antifreeze solutions are also utilized in HVAC systems to prevent water-based solutions from freezing during operation.

Methanol in Energy Storage and Generation

Methanol is used as source for energy storage and generation in fuel cells, particularly in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). These fuel cells convert methanol directly into electricity through an electrochemical process, resulting in a clean and efficient power source for various applications. DMFCs provides high energy density and rapid refueling, making them suitable for portable electronic devices and off-grid power systems.

Also, Check

• Some Commercially Important Alcohols
• Uses of Elements 
• Real Life Applications of Chemicals in Food

Methanol is used as an important component in various industries. Methanol is produced from chemical reactions which is used as an essential part in acrylic plastics, synthetic fibers and fabrics, plywood and paints, and also in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. In this article we will discuss about the real-life applications of methanol and explore each application in detail. Let’s explore some of the most common applications of methanol in our real lives.