5.

0 PROJECT PROPOSAL
5.1 Production of methanol

5.1.1 Raw Materials

The raw material for this process is basically natural gas or synthesis gas that has the
composition of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. The use of a mixture of zinc and copper oxides
is also used as catalysts in this process.

5.1.2 Process Analysis

The synthesis gas is compressed and preheated to 300 to 375ºC before feeding it into the reactor
bottom with a high pressure of 200 to 350 atm. The reactor used is constructed with copper
lined steel containing the catalyst. The depressurized methanol will be in liquid phase and is
then treated with permanganate to remove impurities. Then, a final purification is carried out
to remove water from methanol. This process has the overall reaction given below:

CO + 2 H2 → CH3OH

Figure 5.1.2.1 The process flow diagram for the production of methanol
5.1.3 Current Market Price for Methanol
The market price for methanol based on Cost Insights (15th March 2017) is currently RM5.97
per gallon.

5.1.4 Product lifespan

If methanol is properly stored, isolated from interference and interaction with external
contaminants, methanol will not deteriorate or decompose. Therefore, the lifespan of methanol
is indefinite as long as it is protected from exposure to contamination.