CE 419—Alternative Fuels

Examines several types of alternative fuels that might be used to replace fuels such as gasoline and diesel that are derived from crude oil. Discusses the technology, economics, and other aspects of converting crude oil into gasoline. Considers other fuels including ethanol and biodiesel, hydrogen, synthetic gasoline from coal or shale oil, and a few other, less likely possibilities. Understanding the chemical processing and technology involved will be a major objective, but the course will also stress the importance of making equitable comparisons between the technologies. In addition to technological issues, the alternative fuel technologies will be assessed with respect to environmental impact, economics, and economic impact, sustainability/renewability, vulnerability and capacity (US and worldwide).