Metanol: tudo o que você precisa saber

When working with metanol, álcool metílico (CH₃OH) usado como solvente, combustível e matéria‑prima na indústria química. Also known as álcool metílico, it plays a key role in produção de combustíveis, conversão de gás natural em energia líquida and in the synthesis of formaldeído, composto base para plásticos e resinas. The toxic nature of metanol makes segurança ocupacional, normas de manuseio e armazenamento essential for any facility.

Production of metanol today relies mainly on three pathways. The most common is the steam‑reforming of gás natural, fonte rica em metano que, ao ser reformado, gera síntese de gás rico em hidrogênio e monóxido de carbono. From this syngas, catalytic reactors combine the gases into methanol—a process that demands high temperature and pressure. A secondary route uses biomass gasification, turning agricultural residues into a similar gas mix, which lowers the carbon footprint. The third, still experimental, method electro‑splits water to produce hydrogen, then merges it with captured CO₂; if powered by renewable electricity, it creates a virtually carbon‑neutral fuel. These production routes illustrate a semantic triple: "Metanol requires gas natural as a primary feedstock," and another: "Biomassa‑based methanol reduces greenhouse‑gas emissions." Once produced, metanol can replace gasoline in flex‑fuel vehicles, power marine engines, or serve as a feedstock for formaldehyde, acrylic acid, and a range of polymers. Its high octane rating and clean‑burn characteristics make it attractive for countries seeking energy diversification, while its toxicity—especially when ingested—demands strict labeling and emergency‑response protocols.

In the articles that follow you’ll find concrete examples of how metanol is reshaping the energy market, detailed safety guidelines for handling, and the latest innovations in sustainable production. Whether you’re a student, a professional in the chemical sector, or just curious about alternative fuels, the collection below will give you practical insights and up‑to‑date information about this versatile molecule.