Formaldehyde: Methanol is extensively used in the production of formaldehyde, a key chemical used in various industries such as automotive, construction, and healthcare. The increasing demand for formaldehyde in the manufacturing of resins, glues, and coatings is driving the growth of the methanol market in the formaldehyde application segment.
Acetic Acid: Another major application of methanol is in the production of acetic acid. Acetic acid is widely utilized in the manufacturing of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), which is further used in the production of polymers and adhesives. The growing demand for polymers and adhesives is fueling the growth of the methanol market in the acetic acid application segment.
MTBE: Methanol is also used in the production of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), which is primarily used as an octane booster in gasoline. The increasing consumption of gasoline, coupled with the stringent regulations for cleaner fuels, is driving the demand for MTBE and, in turn, the growth of the methanol market in the MTBE application segment.
DME: Dimethyl ether (DME) is another important application of methanol. DME is used as a clean-burning alternative fuel for diesel engines and as a propellant in aerosol products. The rising focus on sustainable and eco-friendly fuel sources is propelling the demand for DME and, consequently, the growth of the methanol market in the DME application segment.