ALTERNATIVE FUELS AND THEIR

USES

IntroductionThe increase in energy consumption

particularly in the past several decades has raised fears of exhausting vital natural resources

Rapid industrialization and massive growth in population has increased the dependence and use of natural fuels

Approximately 90% of our energy requirement are met by fossil fuels

Studies suggest that if exploited at the same rate, the coal reserves will deplete in the next 200-300 years and petroleum deposits will deplete in the next few decades

So, it is important for us to engage in research and development of alternative fuels so we may not face scarcity of natural resources in the future

Alternative Fuel Sources

Hydrogen

Biodiesel

Ethanol

Biomass

Hydrogen

Clean source of fuel

Extracted by electrolysis of H2O

Helps lower CO2 emissions

End product is H2O

Uses

Widely used for Rocket Engines

Used for Internal Combustion Engines when mixed with natural gas

Used extensively in fuel cells

Biodiesel Clean burning alternative fuel source

Derived from Soy beans and animal fats

Has same vehicular performance as Diesel

Completely renewable fuel source

UsesPopularly used in vehicles and power

generators

Ethanol

Is a renewable energy source

can be produced from a variety of feedstock such as sugar cane, potatoes, sweet potatoes, molasses, corn, etc.

Mostly produced by Fermentation

Is a particulate-free burning fuel source

Uses

Most commonly used to power automobiles

Additive for gasoline

Biomass

Is the most important source for energy productions supplied by agriculture

Is a “carbon lean” fuel producing a fraction of the Carbon emissions of fossil 

Anaerobic digestion converts biomass, especially waste product such as municipal solid waste and market waste.

UsesCan offer local business opportunities and

support the rural economy

Can be used as a domestic fuel

Used for boilers

Conclusion

The alternative fuel sources are environment-friendly as opposed to fossil fuels

By using alternative sources we can reduce, Air pollution, soil pollution and water pollution

Using alternative fuel helps diminish Global Warming

Due to technological advancements vehicles are made with improved fuel efficiency and also perfect hybrid vehicle are available

Throughout the year these sources are available without affecting the Environment

Helps conserve natural resources

References“Hydrogen”.25May 2012. <http://www.alternatefuels.com/hydrogen.htm>

“Ethanol Fuel”.24 May 2012. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethanol_fuel>

“Alternate Fuels”.22 May 2012. <http://www.gvepinternational.org/en/business/biofuels>

“Biomass”.23 May 2012. < http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biomass>

“Fossil Fuels”.22 May 2012. < http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fossil_fuel>

 ”Bio Fuels”. 22 May 2012. <http://www.gvepinternational.org/en/business/biofuels>