Methyl Alcohol

Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol amongst other names, is a chemical with the formula CH3OH (a methyl group linked to a hydroxyl group, often abbreviated MeOH). It is a light, volatile, colourless, flammable liquid with a distinctive alcoholic odour similar to that of ethanol. A polar solvent, methanol acquired the name wood alcohol because it was once produced chiefly by the destructive distillation of wood. Today, methanol is mainly produced industrially by hydrogenation of carbon monoxide.Methanol consists of a methyl group linked to a polar hydroxyl group.

Synonyms
carbinol I MeOH I Methano I Methylalkohol
Chemical Formula
CH4O
CAS Number
67-56-1

Characteristics

Melting Point
−98 °C
Boiling Point
64.7 °C
Flash Point
11 - 12°C
Density
1.053 g/mL at 20 °C

Uses and Applications

Key applications

  • Solvents

Industries