Iran was a significant producer and exporter of methanol. Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, is a colorless liquid that can be used as a chemical feed stock, solvent, and fuel source. Here are some key points about Iran’s methanol industry:
- Methanol Production: Iran has been one of the world’s leading producers of methanol. The country possesses vast natural gas reserves, and methanol production is predominantly based on the conversion of natural gas to methanol through a process called methanol synthesis.
- Petrochemical Industry: The methanol produced in Iran is a critical component of its petrochemical industry. Methanol is used as a feed stock to produce various chemicals and petrochemical products, such as formaldehyde, acetic acid, and dim ethyl ether (DME).
- Export Market: Iran exports a significant portion of its methanol production to various countries around the world. Major export destinations include China, India, South Korea, and Southeast Asian countries.
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formaldehyde production for use in MDF and plywood industry:
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Melamine resin production for use in range of utensil, inbuilt switches and ranges of industrial glue:
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Producing ethylene and propylene as raw material of petrochemical companies:
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Acetic acid production for use in VAM and cellulose acetate in textile industry:
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Methyl Methacrylate (PMAA) for use in laminates:
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Producing DME for substituting diesel fuel:
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Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) production as a gas online enhancer:
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Mixing with petrol for car engine fuel usage:
| Property |
Specification |
Analytical Test |
| Purity WT % |
99.85 Min. |
IMPCA 001-14 |
| Water W/W % |
0.100 Max |
ASTM E-1064 |
| Ethanol W/W % |
0.0050 Max |
IMPCA 001-14 |
| Specific Gravity 20/20, °C |
0.7928 Max |
ASTM D-4052 |
| Acetone, W/W % |
0.0030 Max. |
IMPCA 001-14 |
| Permanganate Time Test @ 15ºC, Minutes |
60 Min |
ASTM D-1363 |
| Non-Volatile Matter, mg/1000 m |
8 Max |
ASTM D-1353 |
| Distillation range @ 760 mm-Hg, °C |
1.0 Max |
ASTM D-1078 |
| Color Pt- Co, APHA |
5 Max |
ASTM D-1209 |
| Carbonizable, APHA |
30 Max |
ASTM E-346 |
| Total Iron, mg/kg |
0.10 Max |
ASTM E-394 |
| Chloride as Cl¯, mg/kg |
0.5 Max |
ASTM D-512 |
| Appearance |
Clear and Free from Suspended Matter |
IMPCA 003-98 |
| Acidity as CH3 COOH, W/W % |
0.0030 Max |
ASTM D-1613 |
| Hydrocarbons |
Passes Test |
ASTM D-1722 |
| Sulphur, mg/kg |
0.5 Max. |
ASTM D-5623 |
| Aromatics, UV Test |
Passes Test |
IMPCA 004-02 |
Methanol can be transported using several methods, and the choice of the most suitable method depends on factors such as the quantity of methanol, the distance to be traveled, the destination, budget considerations, and other specific requirements. Below are some common methods of transporting methanol:
- Liquid Transportation in Tankers: Methanol is transported as a liquid in tankers. This method is suitable for long distances and when large quantities of methanol need to be transported. Tankers typically have safety systems to prevent hazards during transportation, such as firefighting systems and leak prevention measures.
- Compressed Gas Transportation: Methanol can be transported as a compressed gas in bottles or pressure tanks. This method is suitable for short-distance transportation, smaller quantities of methanol, and specialized uses such as the automotive industry.
- Liquefied Gas (LPG) Transportation: Methanol can be transported as a liquefied gas in drums or pressurized containers. This method is used for medium to large-scale transportation of methanol to industrial facilities and units.
- Pipeline Transportation: In some cases, methanol is transported through pipelines to the destination. This method is used for medium to large-scale transportation and long-distance transfers.
- ISO Container Transport: For international transportation of methanol, standard ISO containers with various capacities are used.
In any case, safety should be the top priority when transporting methanol, and compliance with safety regulations for the transportation of hazardous materials must be ensured. This includes using transportation equipment that meets safety standards, providing proper training to drivers and related personnel, and using appropriate safety gear.
