In industry it is used in the manufacturing of synthetic textiles, linoleum and dyes. It has also been added intentionally as an adulterant to bootleg liquor. To the general consumer methanol may be found in paint removers, shellacs, windshield washing fluid, photocopying fluids, as a component in solid fuels, and in common gasoline products such as dry gas. In some parts of the United States, methanol, instead of ethyl alcohol is used as a additive in gasoline to increase fuel efficiency.
Methanol is a colorless liquid and when mixed with other liquids is almost unrecognizable to taste.
Clinical Pharmacology Methanol is distinctive from many other toxins in that toxic effects after exposure may not be immediate. Peak plasma levels are seen 30-60 minutes after ingestion. Methanol can be readily absorbed via the skin, lungs or gastrointestinal tract. Methanol is metabolized primarily in the liver. Methanol is metabolized by hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase to yield formaldehyde.