Used as a solvent in industrial processes, methanol plays a key role in the production of formaldehyde, which is essential for making plastics, resins, and adhesives. It serves as a fuel additive and alternative fuel in engines, especially in racing and specialty vehicles due to its high octane rating and clean burn. In the chemical industry, it is a precursor for manufacturing acetic acid, methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), and other important derivatives. Methanol is also utilized in denaturing ethanol to make it unfit for consumption. In wastewater treatment, it acts as a carbon source for denitrifying bacteria. Additionally, it is used in fuel cells to generate electricity and as a refrigerant in cold packs due to its endothermic dissolution in water.