Comparing 14 vendors in Methanol across 89 criteria.
ContendersMarket Leaders 
Emerging CompaniesInnovators 
Metafrax
Yankuang (Yanzhou Coal)
Petronas
BASF
Methanex
SABIC
OCI NV
Zagros
Celanese
Mitsubishi Gas Chemical
Mitsui
Lyondellbasell
Sipchem
Valenz (Helm Proman)
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POWERED BY MARKETSANDMARKETS
Dec 21, 2024
Summary
The Methanol Companies quadrant is a comprehensive industry analysis that provides valuable insights into the global market for Methanol. This quadrant offers a detailed evaluation of key market players, technological advancements, product innovations, and emerging trends shaping the industry. MarketsandMarkets 360 Quadrants evaluated over 50 Methanol companies of which the Top 14 Methanol Companies were categorised and recognized as the quadrant leaders.
According to the Methanol Institute, a global trade association for the methanol industry, methanol (CH30H) is water-soluble and readily biodegradable, comprising four parts hydrogen, one part oxygen, and one part carbon, and is the simplest member Of a group Of organic chemicals called alcohols. Methanol is known as methyl alcohol, wood alcohol, wood naphtha, methyl hydrate, or wood spirits. Methanol is called "wood alcohol" because it was chiefly a by-product of the destructive distillation of wood. Methanol is produced in a catalytic process directly from carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen.
Methanol is a clear liquid chemical used in thousands Of everyday products, including plastics, paints, and fuels. Methanol is also an energy resource used in the marine, automotive, and electricity sectors, and an emerging renewable energy resource. At room temperature, it is a polar liquid, which is used as an anti-freezing agent. Methanol is used as a feedstock to manufacture many derivatives, such as formaldehyde, acetic acid, gasoline, biodiesel, methanol to olefins (MTO), methanol to propylene (MTP), and methyl methacrylate (MMA). There are two major feedstocks to produce methanol conventionally: natural gas and coal.
The 360 Quadrant efficiently maps the methanol companies based on criteria such as revenue, geographic presence, growth strategies, investments, channels of demand, and sales strategies for the market presence of the methanol quadrant. While the top criteria for product footprint evaluation included By Feedstock (Natural Gas and Coal), Derivative (Formaldehyde, MTO/MTP, Gasoline, MTBE, MMA, Acetic Acid, DME and Biodiesel), Sub-Derivative and End-User Industry.
Key Highlights included in 360 Quadrants:
- The global methanol market was valued at USD 30,988 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 38,086 million in 2028 by growing at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2028.
- Based on feedstock, the natural gas segment accounted for the largest share (47%) of the methanol market in 2022. The natural gas segment is expected to grow due to the most effective, cheaper, and cleaner feedstock is mainly used to produce methanol in North America, Europe, and South America.
- In terms of packaging type, pouches are witnessing an increase in demand due to their superior properties, such as their versatile nature, low weight, and easy transportability. In 2022, this segment accounted for the largest share (nearly 30%) of the flexible packaging market in terms of value. This is further projected to rise at a CAGR of 6% between 2022 and 2027.
- In terms of derivative type formaldehyde derivative is the largest segment in the methanol market. One of the most significant chemical products in the world, formaldehyde is used to make resins such as urea-phenolic (UF), acetal, phenol-formaldehyde (PF), and melamine-formaldehyde (MF).
- Methanol companies incorporate various types of sub-derivatives such as formaldehyde/phenol-formaldehyde resins (UF/PF resins), polyacetal, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), acetate esters, acetic anhydride, terephthalic acid (PTA), gasoline additives, olefins, fuels, and others. UF/PF has been the fastest-growing market, accounting for 20% of the methanol market, followed by gasoline additives with a 16% share.
- There are many regional and local methanol companies present, which has led to the fragmentation of the methanol market. Due to annual incremental capacity additions that were more than the annual additional demand, the methanol sector reached a point of oversupply by the end of 2020.
- Factors such as raw material accessibility, consumer demand, environmental issues, and GDP growth rates. In terms of value, Asia Pacific dominated the worldwide methanol market in 2022. The electronics, chemicals, automotive, construction, and other industries that are thriving in some Asia Pacific regions, including China, India, Japan, and South Korea, are to blame for the region's rapid rise in the methanol industry.
- Methanol companies like Methanex Corporation, Valenz (Helm Proman) and SABIC these three market players have undertaken various development strategies pertaining to the methanol market, where the cumulative share of these top three methanol companies was between 22 to 24% of the total market in 2022.
- Leading methanol companies adopted new product launches as the key growth strategy, along with partnerships and agreements. A contract for the building of a new methanol pipeline was signed by Suez Methanol Derivatives (SMD) and Methanex Corporation. The project in Damietta by SMD will get methanol from Methanex Corporation's factory in Egypt. Operations for the pipeline development project are anticipated to begin in 2024.
- Other leading methanol companies such as Yankuang (Yanzhou Coal), Petronas, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, BASF, Methanex and SABIC, and others have also been actively involved in strategic growth activities in order to strengthen their footprint in the market. For instance, in October 2022, A partnership between the two businesses to market green methanol was announced. Cement Australia will receive eco-friendly methanol manufacturing technology from Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company Inc. The partnership expands new methanol manufacturing technology in Cement Australia.
- The development of methanol as a marine and industrial fuel as well as the expansion of MTO/MTP plant production capacity are other drivers driving the methanol market. Methanol companies are now increasing MTO/MTP production capacities in emerging economies such as China, India, Mexico, Brazil, and Indonesia.
- Methanol companies are also focused on building strategies to address the demand for the construction industry. Cite an example, In March 2023, A contract for the construction of a methanol-to-synthetic ethanol conversion facility was signed by the Zagros Petrochemical Company and the Dalian Petrochemical Company.
- As part of the shipping industry's move toward decarbonization, methanol companies such as Methanex Corporation, Stena Line, and the Port of Gothenburg celebrated a new milestone in January 2023 by pushing methanol as a cleaner burning marine fuel. The Stena Germanica, the first methanol ferry in the world, worked with Methanex to successfully execute ship-to-ship methanol bunkering at the Port of Gothenburg. This relationship served to boost the market for methanol as a marine fuel and to assist the sector's energy transition.
- Methanol companies like Methanex Corporation, HELM Proman Methanol AG, and SABIC are industry majors and have benefitted mainly from their well-recognized brands and strong distribution capabilities in the expanding market.
- Most methanol companies are introducing innovative applications, it has features in everyday items such as windshield washer fluid, fertilizers, carpets and plastics.
- Some of the methanol companies such as Celanese Corporation, Petronas, and Metafrax Chemicals are the prominent leaders in the market, driving their growth through their innovative products, expanded production capabilities, and effective distribution channels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Methanol is a colorless, toxic, flammable liquid that is used as a solvent, antifreeze, and fuel. It is also known as methyl alcohol, wood alcohol, or carbinol and has the chemical formula CH3OH. Methanol is a simple organic compound that consists of one carbon atom, three hydrogen atoms, and one hydroxyl (-OH) group. Steam methane reforming or destructive distillation is a process that is commonly used to produce it from natural gas or biomass. Methanol is widely used as a solvent for paints, resins, and adhesives, as well as in the production of formaldehyde, acetic acid, and other chemicals in industrial and laboratory settings. Methanol, on the other hand, is extremely toxic and can cause serious health problems if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
The main applications for the chemical methanol are as a fuel, solvent, and antifreeze. It is utilized in the manufacture of formaldehyde, acetic acid, and other compounds as well as an alternative fuel for automobiles, a fuel additive, and a solvent. In addition, methanol is employed in the manufacture of various medications, as a deicer for airplanes and airport runways, as a cleaning agent for precision parts and electronic components, and as an antifreeze in cooling systems. However, because methanol is extremely toxic and can be harmful if consumed or inhaled, it must be handled with great caution.
When handled and utilised correctly, methanol can be used without risk. It is frequently utilised as a fuel, antifreeze, and solvent in industrial and laboratory settings. But it's important to remember that methanol is toxic and can be harmful if consumed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Methanol exposure can result in blindness, lung issues, liver and kidney damage, and in extreme situations, even death. Methanol should be handled carefully and according to the correct safety procedures, which include donning the required safety gear and keeping it away from heat sources and flames.
Methanol exposure, whether via ingesting, inhalation, or skin contact, can have detrimental impacts on one's health. Depending on the intensity and length of exposure, methanol is toxic and can result in a number of symptoms and health issues. Methanol consumption can cause blindness or even death. The body converts methanol to formic acid, which can result in metabolic acidosis, a condition in which there is an excess of acid in the body and harm to organs like the liver, kidneys, and brain. Headache, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and breathing difficulties are all potential signs of methanol intake. Similar symptoms, as well as irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, can also be brought on by exposure to methanol by inhalation or skin contact. Methanol must be handled carefully and in accordance with established safety procedures to reduce any potential health concerns.
Methanol can be made from a number of different feedstocks, including natural gas, coal, and biomass. The catalytic conversion of natural gas is the most common method for producing methanol. At high temperatures and pressures, methane is reacted with steam and a catalyst, typically a mixture of nickel and aluminium oxide, in a process known as steam methane reforming. After cooling, the synthesis gas is passed through additional catalysts to produce methanol. Other methods of producing methanol include gasification of coal or biomass and partial oxidation of methane. Methanol can also be produced by destructive distillation, which is the decomposition of wood or other organic materials in the absence of air.
Methanol is a colorless, flammable liquid that has a mildly sweet odor. It has a melting point of -97.6°C and a boiling point of 64.7°C. Methanol has a lower viscosity and surface tension than water and is highly soluble in water, alcohol, and ether. It is a polar solvent, which means it can dissolve polar as well as nonpolar compounds.
Methanol is a type of alcohol with the chemical formula CH3OH. It is composed of one carbon atom, three hydrogen atoms, and one hydroxyl (-OH) group. Methanol is a simple organic compound that is flammable and produces a nearly colorless flame when burned. Methanol is a precursor to other chemicals like formaldehyde and acetic acid, and it is used to make a variety of industrial and consumer products like solvents, antifreeze, fuels, and plastics.
Methanol is typically stored and transported in specially designed containers due to its flammability and toxicity. Methanol is typically transported in large quantities via tank trucks or railcars. To prevent corrosion and leakage, these vehicles have specialised tanks made of stainless steel or aluminium. Methanol is typically transported at low temperatures in order to reduce vapour pressure and avoid the risk of explosion. Methanol is also frequently stored in bulk storage tanks at manufacturing or terminal facilities. To ensure the safe and secure transport and handling of methanol, proper labelling, documentation, and handling procedures are required during storage and transportation.
Methanol is a fuel that is used in a variety of applications, such as racing cars, fuel cells, and as a gasoline additive. It is also regarded as a renewable fuel because it can be produced using renewable resources such as biomass.
Methanol is commonly used as a fuel in methanol fuel cells, which generate electricity by converting methanol into electricity and water. Methanol can also be used as a fuel additive in gasoline, increasing the octane rating and lowering harmful emissions.
Methanol is frequently used as a racing fuel in racing cars because it has a higher octane rating than gasoline, allowing for increased performance. Because of its high energy density and lower combustion temperature, methanol is also commonly used as a racing fuel, which can reduce engine wear and improve engine longevity.
Because methanol has different properties than gasoline and other traditional fuels, it may necessitate the use of specialised engines and fuel systems. When working with methanol as a fuel, proper handling and safety protocols are also essential.
Methanol as a fuel has both beneficial and detrimental effects on the environment. Because it can be made from biomass, methanol is regarded as a renewable fuel because it burns cleanly and emits fewer greenhouse gases and air pollutants than conventional fossil fuels like gasoline and diesel. Moreover, methanol can be mixed with gasoline to further cut emissions and the need for fossil fuels. Methanol must be transported and stored using specific infrastructure, and its manufacturing from natural gas or coal can also release air pollutants and greenhouse gases. Also, the widespread use of methanol as a fuel can raise the demand for biomass resources, which might have an adverse effect on the environment due to deforestation or other factors.
Depending on the nation and jurisdiction, different rules and safety precautions apply to the handling of methanol. Nonetheless, the following are some typical laws and instructions for managing methanol:
Correct labelling: Information regarding the contents, risks, and recommended handling procedures must be printed on all equipment and containers that contain methanol.
Proper storage: Methanol should be stored properly in a cold, dry place that is well-ventilated and away from heat sources and items that are incompatible with it.
Personal protective equipment (PPE): Workers handling methanol should use the proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and respirators.
Emergency response: In the case of a spill, fire, or other disaster containing methanol, adequate emergency response methods and tools should be in place.
Training: Methanol handlers should obtain the proper instruction on the substance's dangers, safe handling practises, and emergency response.
Transportation: Proper labelling and documentation, as well as adherence to all applicable rules and regulations, should be used when transporting methanol.
Disposal: Methanol must be disposed of appropriately in compliance with all applicable laws and instructions.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States has issued rules and recommendations for the safe handling of methanol in the workplace. Similar regulatory structures and policies for the safe handling of methanol may exist in other nations.
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