Methanol or methyl alcohol, which is the simplest type of alcohol, is known by the chemical formula CH3OH.

Methanol is a light, volatile, colorless, flammable liquid. It is so toxic that swallowing or inhaling it can cause blindness or death. Methanol is used in the production of many end products such as solvents, paints, plastics and antifreeze.

Methanol is also used sparingly as a fuel in engines with internal combustion systems. It should be noted that most of the methanol produced in the world is used to produce acetic acid and formaldehyde MTBE.