Ethanol 100: A Greener Fuel for India

Why in News:

  • The Ministry of Petroleum launched a new biofuel, Ethanol 100, at IndianOil retail outlets.
  • This fuel is made from 92-94% ethanol, a renewable source derived from plants like corn and sugarcane.
  • Ethanol 100 offers several advantages:
    • Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 63% compared to traditional gasoline.
    • High octane rating makes it suitable for high-performance engines.
  • This launch is a step towards achieving India’s target of 20% ethanol blending in gasoline by 2025-26.

Benefits of Ethanol 100:

  • Environmental: Lower greenhouse gas emissions contribute to cleaner air and combating climate change.
  • Economic:
    • Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, saving foreign exchange.
    • Boosts the agriculture sector by creating a demand for crops used for ethanol production, leading to increased farmer income and rural employment.
    • Overall, Ethanol 100 is a promising development for India’s energy sector, promoting both environmental sustainability and economic growth.

Ethanol:-

  • Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, grain alcohol, or simply alcohol, is a versatile substance with a range of applications

Chemical Properties:

  • Formula: C₂H₅OH (or CH₃CH₂OH, EtOH)
  • Properties: Volatile, flammable, colorless liquid with a characteristic odor and taste.

Applications:

  • Fuel: Ethanol is a biofuel, derived from renewable sources like corn or sugarcane. Ethanol 100, a recent development in India, is a fuel containing 92-94% ethanol and offers significant environmental benefits.
  • Beverage: The intoxicating ingredient in alcoholic drinks like beer, wine, and spirits.
  • Solvent: Commonly used in various industries for cleaning, degreasing, and dissolving substances.
  • Medical: Used as an antiseptic for cleaning wounds and disinfection.
  • Industrial: Plays a role in the production of other chemicals and products.

Environmental Impact:

  • Ethanol Production: Can have environmental implications depending on feedstock and production processes.
  • Ethanol as Fuel: Compared to gasoline, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes cleaner air.
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