Americans are caught up in a bind trying to figure the least painful way to reduce use of petroleum based products, such as gas and oil, and adapt new methods more friendly to the environment and to the pocketbook. Last night a discussion presented the merits of ethanol from corn on national television. One of the obstacles presented was the high cost of production because refineries must use fuel to produce ethanol. The assumption that a fuel must be used shortcircuits the effort from the getgo. A more feasible way would be the use of solar power, rather than oil, coal or gas. The method already is being used in small, home-based units and was started many years ago by a California based company. Large refineries could be constructed powered by huge solar panels to produce an alcohol perfectly suited to drive autos. tractors, lawn mowers, etc. A duel fuel conversion kit already has been designed which can be adapted for use on any vehicle now using conventional fu els. Solar gas greatly reduces pollution, as it burns cleaner than gasoline and acts as a cleaning agent within the engine.
Solar fuel can be produced from grains, vegetables, fruits or just about anything that ferments. The process first involves extracting starch from the plant meterial by mashing it and mixing with water. The starch residue is then heated and converted to sugar with enzymes being added to speed the process. Yeast is added which converts the sugars to alcohol and carbon dioxide. At this point ( a four or five day waiting period) the fermented liquid is ready to be distilled into alcohol by solara power. Sugar cane is another ideal base for this fuel and is being produced in Brazil nationwide.
This sounds like a better deal than we now have, shipping crude oil from foreign ports to our refineries and sending our armies overseas to insure the supply. It is ironic that we buy oil from nations who seem dedicated to our destruction, using profits from our money against us.
Solar powered gasoline is cheap compared to the $3 per gallon fuel we now use. Many farmers use small home based units to produce fuel for their vehicles on the farm. Solar gas produces 160-180 proof alcohol and is able to generate more horsepower for less fuel. An additional benefit may be espoused with the thought that you can also enjoy a martini with leftovers.
The discussion definitely brings many creative thoughts to mind. If we literally should be able to produce fuel from anything that produces gas and/or burns, I wonder what is next to be considered? Will we one do look at fuel consumption needs and determine a way to use everything we dispose of as an alternate fuel? We've seen experiments with garbage be successful to fuel an engine. What's next? Will we one day give human beings who prefer to be cremated vs. buried in the ground the alternative to be fodder for energy consumption in some way, shape, or form? It's an interesting thought, for sure, and one that could lead to a great sub-plot for a sci-fi thriller. ha-ha!
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