The consumption of natural fuels such as gasoline and diesel has increased with the increase in the use of vehicles that run on these fuels. Since the beginning of industrialization we have started to consume fossil fuels at an alarming rate. Coal, diesel and gasoline are derived from fossil fuels that will one day run out if the current rate of consumption continues.
This makes us find sustainable fuel for future needs. As of now there are two alternative fuels that could be used as alternatives to fossil fuels. Let’s discuss about them in detail.
Biofuels:
The energy in biofuels is derived from the biological fixation of carbon. These fuels can be derived from the conversion of biomass, solid biomass, liquid fuels, etc. Depending on the source from which they are derived, there are a variety of biofuels. Two popular forms are biodiesel (alternative to diesel) and bioethanol (alternative to gasoline).
Biodiesel is made by extracting and purifying plant seed oil to replace normal diesel and make it available for diesel engines. The most recognized bioethanol are fermented extracts of corn or sugar cane. The natural ethanol thus extracted acts as an alternative to gasoline and can work in any gasoline vehicle.
Pros and cons:
Biofuels are inexhaustible sources of energy, as they are extracted from plant products. Car engines do not require major changes to run on biofuels. Since their origin is natural, they are considered sustainable and respectful with the environment. They help reduce dependence on imported crude oil. They produce fewer emissions, therefore contributing to efforts to reduce the problems of global warming.
Possible disadvantages of biofuels are: there is increased competition between biofuel crops and food crops, which is likely to result in an increase in the prices of food crops. Biofuel production encourages the destruction of forests and other natural habitats for growing biofuel-related crops, which will have devastating consequences for the environment.
Hydrogen fuel:
Hydrogen in its gaseous form can be used as fuel to run engines. Hydrogen is the most abundant element on earth, it is colorless, non-toxic and environmentally friendly. The hydrogen fuel source is natural gas and water. Natural gas contributes 80% of the hydrogen fuel and the rest comes from water resources through the hydrolysis process.
Pros and cons:
The hydrogen fuel production process is safer and cleaner than oil production. Hydrogen fuel ensures future safety in terms of fuel, economic stability, and reduces dependence on gasoline and diesel. Hydrogen fuel produces zero pollutant emissions, which again contributes to the sustainable development of the country.
The disadvantages of hydrogen fuel come from its cost of production. The hydrogen fuel manufacturing process is expensive. Since the development of hydrogen fueling infrastructure is still in the early stages, it requires major changes in vehicle engine design and thus makes cars more expensive.