Methanol is a key feedstock for the gas chemical industry, widely used in the production of formaldehyde, synthetic rubber, and plastics, and as a feedstock for MTBE.
Additionally, methanol can be used as a direct motor fuel additive; it has recently been approved for up to 3% in gasoline for certain classes. Methanol is also widely used as an industrial solvent, while its use in antifreeze and windshield washer fluids is prohibited by law.