This chapter explores methanol as a versatile fuel that bridges the gap between fossil fuel dependence and a carbon-neutral society. Methanol can be used directly as a fuel in internal combustion engines, blended with gasoline, or employed in fuel cells. Compared to hydrogen and ammonia, methanol offers advantages in storage, transportation, and infrastructure compatibility due to its liquid state under ambient conditions. This chapter examines energy density, combustion characteristics, and emission profiles, including reduced particulate matter and NOₓ emissions. It also reviews various methanol-fueled applications, from vehicles to marine engines and boilers. Methanol is already in commercial use in some regions, especially China, and shows strong potential for broader adoption. Crucially, in a methanol society, renewable energy can be used to synthesize methanol from captured CO₂, creating a closed-loop system where carbon resources are continually recycled. This approach enables not only decarbonized fuel use but also a sustainable and circular carbon economy. This chapter emphasizes that methanol-based energy systems are both technically feasible and environmentally advantageous, providing a realistic path toward global decarbonization.

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Why a Methanol Society?

  • Junji Nakamura,
  • Masayoshi Ishida

摘要

This chapter explores methanol as a versatile fuel that bridges the gap between fossil fuel dependence and a carbon-neutral society. Methanol can be used directly as a fuel in internal combustion engines, blended with gasoline, or employed in fuel cells. Compared to hydrogen and ammonia, methanol offers advantages in storage, transportation, and infrastructure compatibility due to its liquid state under ambient conditions. This chapter examines energy density, combustion characteristics, and emission profiles, including reduced particulate matter and NOₓ emissions. It also reviews various methanol-fueled applications, from vehicles to marine engines and boilers. Methanol is already in commercial use in some regions, especially China, and shows strong potential for broader adoption. Crucially, in a methanol society, renewable energy can be used to synthesize methanol from captured CO₂, creating a closed-loop system where carbon resources are continually recycled. This approach enables not only decarbonized fuel use but also a sustainable and circular carbon economy. This chapter emphasizes that methanol-based energy systems are both technically feasible and environmentally advantageous, providing a realistic path toward global decarbonization.