Ethanol as a Transportation Fuel - Assignment Example

Bioethanol is believed to have such potential. However, this desirability is dependent on the production method from a varied range of biomass resources (First generation and second-generation). In general, Bioethanol shows great promise as a replacement for fossil fuels.

The production of bioethanol is however cumbered with problems both in the acquisition of biomass and its eventual processing into the final product. Pollution, water utilization, and soil degradation are some of the major drawbacks to bioethanol development. Also, fossil fuels used in production, and food versus fuel problems, coupled with conflicts in competing for land use interests (Larsen, Johansen, & Schramm, 2009). Current ethanol production is associated with N2O a more potent greenhouse gas for this reason bringing into contention the potential of bioethanol in reducing greenhouse gases and the overall objective of controlling global warming. The land cultivated for feedstock, other than economically empowering farmers, and improving infrastructure and technology is likely to increase carbon dioxide emissions at a greater rate that outweighs the advantage of bioethanol. Cheap feedstock and high energy efficiency crops are present trends in bioethanol production. Industries that previously did not utilize their waste materials are persistently using this waste for the production of ethanol.

Ethanol as fuel differs from gasoline based on properties. Ethanol is hygroscopic and prone to contamination by water, and this is further complicated by the fact that its production is favored by maintaining an optimal amount of water (Larsen, Johansen, and Schramm, 2009). Ethanol also has poor blending capabilities with both diesel and gasoline when it contains water and the use of fuel containing some water is an issue. Problems with engine start have been reported in cold climates as also the inflammable and volatile properties of ethanol. The ethanol content in gasoline used for regular vehicles is limited to up to 10% blend. However, some vehicles use up to 85% ethanol blend (Larsen & Sønderberg, 2007).

Blended ethanol increases torque, power, and engine energy efficiency due to its superior octane rating. However, less energy per liter of fuel reduces mileage. Cleaner tailpipe emission reduces the impacts of air toxics i.e. benzene and butadiene although aldehydes are still prevalent. 82% of ethanol production in the world is predominantly from Brazil and the United States and is the first generation made from starch. In the USA, the EPA is mandated to ensure that all transportation fuel contains a minimum amount of renewable fuel under the RFS program in the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005. Also, under the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) of 2007. These laws aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by using renewable fuels, reducing imported petroleum, and ultimately developing and expanding the renewable fuels sector. These are clear indications of the government's support for the use of bioethanol as fuel for transportation (Staley & Saghaian, 2011).

Based on the information collected on the pros and cons of using bioethanol as a transportation fuel it is evident that its use is beneficial with added benefits in mitigating pollution, improving the economy, and recycling. Also, its improvement in the performance of the car engine in energy efficiency and mileage is commendable. With the adoption of bioethanol, challenges will arise, but it is the objective of developers to minimize detrimental effects while at the same time improving desired qualities.