Introduction to Ethanol as a Fuel What is

Introduction to Ethanol as a Fuel

What is Ethanol? § Also known as Ethyl Alcohol: C 2 H 6 O § A clear, colorless liquid made through fermentation and distillation of any starchcontaining material (corn, sorghum, potatoes, etc. ) § A valuable alternate fuel source

History of Ethanol Use § Originally a drink § Lamp fuel in late 1800 s § Model-T Fords were originally designed to run on ethanol

History of Ethanol § Army vehicles were powered by ethanol during World War II § Ethanol was used to supplement oil supplies in the 1970 s

History of Ethanol Use § First blends of gas and alcohol came in 1970 s and were 10% ethanol - often referred to as gasohol § In the late 1990 s, a blend was introduced that contained 85% alcohol (E-85) § Ethanol production is subsidized by the American government to promote use

Benefits of Ethanol Renewable resource Increase fuel octane levels Decrease engine emissions Extend supply of gasoline Reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil § The 10% ethanol blend produces engine performance comparable to 100% gasoline § § §

Ethanol around the Globe § Brazil and Sweden use large quantities of ethanol as fuel § Some Canadian provinces subsidize ethanol to promote use § In France, ethanol is made from fermenting grapes

Why is Ethanol Use Important? § Clean Air Act Amendment -1990 § Energy Policy Act -1992 § These laws put strict emission guidelines in effect § Car companies developed Flexible Fuel Vehicles, which are capable of operating on up to 85% ethanol

Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether § This is an ingredient mixed with petroleum gasoline that has been recognized as being harmful to the environment. § The use of ethanol-blended fuels would practically eliminate the need for this substance.

References § Environmental Protection Agency, Transportation and Air Quality http: //www. epa. gov/oms