Energy Use of Methanol
摘要
Methanol offers a promising solution to the challenges of hydrogen storage, transport, and utilization. This chapter focuses on methanol as a hydrogen carrier, emphasizing its chemical composition (CH₃OH = 12.5% hydrogen by weight) and ease of reformation into hydrogen gas. Compared to compressed or liquefied hydrogen, methanol is safer, denser, and easier to handle. This chapter explains reforming methods such as steam reforming, partial oxidation, and autothermal reforming and quantifies their energy efficiency and CO₂ emissions. It also discusses integration with fuel cells, especially proton exchange membrane (PEMFC) and solid oxide (SOFC) types, highlighting methanol’s advantages for distributed energy systems and backup power. This chapter explores practical use cases such as portable power devices, off-grid systems, and heavy transport. Methanol’s potential to leverage existing fuel infrastructure makes it a compelling candidate for a hydrogen-based energy future.