Biofuels as Green Energy
In the search to replace fossil fuels, the global community is searching for alternative energy sources. Energy sources that are greener (do not harm the environment) than fossil fuels. Biofuels are a potential source of green energy.
Liquid biofuel which is the one used in cars is a natural and renewable domestic fuel that can only be used for diesel engines. This can be made from vegetable oils mostly soy and corn. The nice thing about it is that it contains no petroleum, is nontoxic and biodegradable.
By fueling up with biofuel, you decrease the pollutants in the air because it does not emit anything. Right now, it is the only fuel approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), passed every Heath-Effects Test of the Clean Air Act and meets the requirements of the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
Making biofuels is not difficult. The proces begins with alcohol. No, you cannot pour your beer into your gas tank. You need an alcohol such as methanol. Next, you need glycerine and methyl. Both of these chemicals are not out of reach. You can find them in normal items such as vegetable oil. Some places, around the globe, have also used corn or sugarcane.
Normal household goods already use glycerine in their production process. These items include toothpaste and soap. As gas prices rise higher, many more people are producing biofuels. Radio talk show host Phil Valentine even spoke about making his own biofuels. We have the technology.
Biofuels offer many advantages such as cleaner burning, healthier environment, and an alternative to fossil fuels. These fuels also allow you to reduce cancer-causing chemicals in the environment.
If you are skeptic about biodiesels, studies have shown that its performance on the road is just as good as petroleum in terms of power to efficiency, hauling and climbing. You can use this in its pure form or blend with petroleum fuel. The most common mix in the market is 20/80 and is referred to as B20. This means that 20% is biodiesel and the remainder is 80%. Another version is the E85 which is fuel composed of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline.
You could buy a new automobile capable of running on biodiesel. This is not necessary. It is possible to make some engine modifications and run biodiesel in any vehicle. These modifications do not even void your vehicle’s warranty.
We have not run out of time. There is still time to change our habits and move to renewable energy sources.