The future of fuel is getting stronger. We are no longer reliant on fossil fuels for heat and energy. Car manufacturers are making ecologically responsible vehicles in the form of hybrids. Gas and electric hybrids are energy efficient and cost a lot less to run. Solar powered vehicles and biofuels are next in line for the green energy program. Biofuels are made from recycled plant and animal material. Some types of biofuels are made from soybeans, corn, sugar cane and vegetable oils.
As great as it is to be able to recycle oil into a usable alternative fuel there are some drawbacks that keep it from being considered a perfect fuel. Biofuel must be processed and treated to be able to be used in modern vehicles. Although some farmers use it as fuel for their tractors and pickup trucks, it may damage the vehicle over time. Biodiesel is the product of biofuel mixed with a blend of ethanol to a half and half ratio.
The Advantages of Biofuels:
While there are advantages to using biofuels the disadvantages outweigh them at the moment. Biofuels are less expensive than gasoline, the source of recycled material is plentiful, they have lower carbon emissions and they are biodegradable.
The Disadvantages of Biofuels:
The process for making biofuel takes more energy. Since the fuel is made from recycled food waste, it could increase the cost of food production from the increased demand. If farmers start growing more crops for fuel and less for food the prices may rise.
1. Engineers have not come up with a way to make biofuels as efficient as gasoline.
2. They do not get as many miles to the gallon and do not react well to cold temperatures.
3. Vegetable oil becomes a solid in cold temperatures and can block the fuel filter.
4. Biodiesel is only for use in diesel engines it is not adapted for any other vehicles.
5. Biodiesel can disintegrate rubber parts and seals in the engine.
Although biofuels have their problems, one day they will become a sustainable energy source. Engineers and scientists are working on ways to make this a reality. Cars that run on electricity, biofuels and even a prototype that runs on water are all the latest attempts at self-sufficiency. It is a work in progress that still needs time to develop.
