METHANOL: ITS SYNTHESIS, USE AS A FUEL, ECONOMICS, AND HAZARDS

The synthesis of methanol using existing and proposed means of production and sources of feedstocks is reviewed. Conventional methods of producing methanol are surveyed. Proposed methods of fermentation, electro-, and radiation-synthesis are discussed. Conventional production technology from synthesis gas is examined in detail. The range of possible sources of feedstocks from fossil fuels to biomass, atmospheric carbon dioxide, and carbonates are portrayed along with renewable and nonrenewable energy sources. A survey of recent studies and research on methanol is given within the historical context. Fuel related properties are reviewed and compared with isooctane. Combustion emissions and their variation with temperature and fuel preparation are similarly compared. Uses of methanol as a combustion fuel and recent tests in boilers, turbines, conventional and stratified charge Otto engines, and diesel engines are discussed emphasizing comparative efficiencies. Current developments on the uses of methanol directly and indirectly in fuel cells and as a feedstock for single cell protein are examined. Historical prices of methanol are presented along with major causes for the fluctuations. The costs of synthesizing methanol are presented including overall production costs from organic feedstocks. Proposed costs of producing methanol from electrolytic hydrogen and carbon dioxide are also given.

  • Corporate Authors:

    University of Minnesota, Minneapolis

    Heat Transfer Laboratory
    Minneapolis, MN  United States 

    Energy Research and Development Administration

    20 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
    Washington, DC  United States  20590
  • Authors:
    • Hagen, D L
  • Publication Date: 1976-12

Media Info

  • Pagination: 186 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00168643
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
  • Report/Paper Numbers: Thesis
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Dec 27 1978 12:00AM