Wood alcohol, also known as methanol, is produced from natural and organic materials and used as a renewable fuel source and in manufacturing. It is relatively low in cost and cleaner burning than other fuels. However, it is hazardous and can cause serious health problems if not handled properly.
Wood alcohol is also known as meyl alcohol or methanol. It gets its name from the fact that it is made from natural and organic materials, including wood products such as sawdust and also charcoal, herbs and seaweed. This product is used as an alternative, renewable fuel source as well as in manufacturing. Wood alcohol has been around for decades, but with the shortages of many products that came with World War II, new ways to use this abundant fuel were developed.
At one time, automakers built some vehicles to run solely on wood alcohol. With the abandonment of these cars, there has still been research into the feasibility of using wood alcohol as a renewable and environmentally friendly fuel. In fact, many professional racing organizations around the world use this fuel blended with unleaded gasoline.
It is also an important component in manufacturing. Wood alcohol is used as an ingredient in chemicals ranging from formaldehyde to cleaning materials such as washer fluid. Many types of paints contain some form of the chemical and it is also a major component in dyes and fabrics such as polyester. Acetic acid is also created by a chemical process involving wood alcohol and this acid is then in turn used in the production of plastics and glues. When fuel undergoes a chemical process, it can also be used to create hydrogen.
Because it is produced from renewable sources, wood alcohol has been regarded as a valuable resource in the alternative fuel industry. Generally cleaner burning than other types of fuel, it can be easily produced from a variety of sources. It is relatively low in cost and easier to work with than many types of natural gas due in large part to its lower flammability.
Methanol is still a hazardous compound and should be properly labeled with the appropriate safety information. If an individual is exposed to it without protection, it can result in loss of consciousness, blurred vision and difficulty breathing. Prolonged exposure can cause neurological damage, poisoning, permanent eye damage and brain injury. Some individuals may experience seizures or convulsions if they breathe in the fumes. While it is less flammable than many types of natural gas, there is still a danger of explosion if exposed to a flame.
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