## Methanol

**Formula**

$CH3OH$

**Pyrotechnics use**

Solvent

**Synonyms**

Wood alcohol, methyl alcohol, hydroxymethane, carbinol

**Description**

Methanol is used as a solvent, much in the same way ethanol is used. Red gum and shellac, two common binders both dissolve in methanol. Methanol/water mixtures are also often used since the methanol increases the 'wetness' of the water (it reduces the surface tension of the water) and reduces the solubility of common oxidisers.

**Sources** 

Methanol is often more cheaply and easily available than ethanol because it is toxic and no extra taxes are charged for it. It finds use in a certain type of camping stove and can often be bought in camping supply stores.

**Hazards**
 
Methanol is flammable, volatile and toxic. Methanol vapour is heavier than air and spreads over the ground. Provide adequate ventilation when working with methanol