James,
A few years ago I was interested in methanol since it worked well in fuel cells to generate electricity without combustion. Alas, I found that methanol [“wood alcohol”] is very toxic. Anyone in a burning methanol [extensively in a confined space] would shortly after feel “drunk” then [might eventually] die from methanol poisoning. Additionally, methanol you spill on your hands enters your bloodstream and damages your liver (permanently), any you inhale does likewise, and any that hits the ground will poison the soil and groundwater. Its bad stuff, not something you want to have around unless you really have to. – Inyokern
JWR Replies: Thanks for adding those safety warnings. I was aware of the dangers of ingesting methanol, but I was not aware that the fumes and skin contact were so insidious. I will append my reply to LeAnne’s instructional post. Based on your warnings, I can now only recommend grain alcohol (ethanol) for use in tin can stoves.