Methanol as a hydrogen carrier

Methanol is a potential future energy carrier due to its liquid form. In particular, it could find an application as a fuel in the shipping sector, which is discussed in the paper. In that context, the combustion-related properties of methanol are highlighted and compared with other fuel options. Renewable hydrogen and CO2 can be used to produce methanol. Recent “power-to-X” advances in methanol production are presented starting from technoeconomic assessment and finishing on reactor design studies at Aalto University. Methanol can be burned in engines with various combustion technologies. Mixing controlled combustion of methanol has been in focus and results were compared with premixed combustion. More fundamental studies on spray behavior were also discussed. Recent advances in methanol combustion from Aalto University are presented.