Fuels of the Future
There are many fuels that can be used instead of fossil fuels (gasoline, diesel, coal). Alternatives like ethanol, methanol, and biodiesel are naturally occurring and emit fewer-to-no harmful emissions.
Ethanol: Ethanol is the most popular bio-fuel currently used. This alcohol is made by fermenting and distilling starch (typically corn). Ethanol can be used as a fuel in its purest form, mixed with gasoline, or as part of a fuel cell.
Biodiesel: Biodiesel is a diesel alternative. Biodiesel is created by combining natural oils and fats with alcohol. Natural oils and fats can include recycled cooking grease or animal fat. Biodiesel can be used in its pure form or as an addition to diesel.
Methanol: Methanol is an alcohol that can be created using biomass. The biomass must be vaporized into carbon monoxide and hydrogen. These gases react with each other to create methanol. Methanol can be used as a fuel in its purest form, mixed with the gasoline additive methyl tertiary butyl ether, or in a fuel cell.
