METHANOL

Description

 DESCRIPTION

Methanol is a light, volatile, colorless, flammable liquid with a distinctive alcoholic odor. It is the simplest form of alcohol and is widely used as a solvent, fuel, and antifreeze, and in chemical manufacturing.

 INCI NAME

Methanol

INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) typically uses the common chemical name for this substance, which is simply Methanol. Note: Methanol is not commonly used in cosmetics due to its toxicity.

3. CAS NUMBER

67-56-1

4. APPLICATION

• Industrial Solvent – for resins, inks, adhesives, and dyes
• Fuel – in internal combustion engines and racing cars (as a gasoline additive or alternative fuel)
• Chemical Feedstock – for formaldehyde, acetic acid, and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) production
• Antifreeze & De-icing Agent – especially for windshield washer fluids and pipeline protection
• Laboratory Use – as a polar solvent
• Not suitable for direct cosmetic or pharmaceutical applications due to high toxicity

5. APPEARANCE

• Clear, colorless liquid
• Characteristic alcoholic odor

6. USAGE RATE

• Industrial: Depends on the application
• Cosmetic use: Generally prohibited or restricted due to high toxicity – check regional regulations (e.g., EU Cosmetics Regulation bans methanol in cosmetics except as an unavoidable trace)

7. SOLUBILITY

• Soluble in water (completely miscible)
• Soluble in most organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, acetone, and chloroform

⚠️ SAFETY NOTE

Methanol is highly toxic via ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption. It can cause blindness, nervous system damage, or death in relatively small amounts. Use with strict safety precautions in industrial settings.