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Chemical Intermediates
Methyl alcohol is used to produce chemical intermediates such as formaldehyde and acetic acid. These chemicals are used to produce secondary derivatives, which are in turn used to manufacture a wide array of products such as plastic, plywood and resins. Methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) is produced through the chemical reaction of methyl alcohol and isobutylene. MTBE is combined with gasoline to decrease harmful exhaust emissions from automobiles. In addition, methyl alcohol is used on a limited basis as a direct fuel.
Fuel Cell Application
Currently, methanol is used in the development fuel cell applications. Fuel cells convert chemical energy from a fuel into electric energy to power devices such as cellphones, laptops and commuter scooters. In addition, methanol has a number of distinct characteristics that make it an ideal source for fuel cell applications; it converts into hydrogen at relatively low temperatures, which can result in improved system efficiency and a longer life of the fuel cell system. It is also widely distributed and environmentally friendly.
Wastewater Treatment
Wastewater contains high levels of ammonia; this ammonia is converted into nitrate in wastewater treatment facilities through bacterial degradation, and methyl alcohol serves as an ideal carbon source for the bacteria in this process. Next, the harmful nitrate is converted into harmless nitrogen gas through a process called denitrification. Finally, the nitrogen gas is released safely into the atmosphere.
Biodiesel Production
Biodiesel is a cleaner-burning diesel replacement made from natural, renewable sources such as vegetable oils, animal fats and used cooking oils; these sources are chemically reacted with methanol to produce biodiesel. The process of producing biodiesel is called
"transesterification." Of all alcohols, methanol is preferred because it produces a thorough chemical reaction process and is relatively inexpensive compared to other alcohols.