WorldAugust 10, 2026

methanol

METH-uh-nol

Definition

A clear, colorless, liquid alcohol that can be used as a low-carbon marine fuel alternative to conventional fossil-based bunkers.

Etymology

Derived from 'methyl' (from the Greek 'methy' meaning wine) and the chemical suffix '-ol' indicating an alcohol. It was first synthesized in the 19th century and named to describe its nature as a spirit derived from wood.

In the news

The article mentions methanol as a potential clean energy source for ships, noting that its availability is currently limited and it is only useful for vessels specifically designed to burn it.

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