bioethanol
Bioethanol is a light alcohol produced by fermenting carbohydrates, such as starch or sugar, in vegetable matter. It is called bioethanol to distinguish it from ethanol derived from non-plant sources such as petroleum.
Bioethanol is currently being used in Brazil, the United States, China, India and Thailand. The first three are the world’s top producers of bioethanol.
Other sources of bioethanol include corn, sugar, cassava, sweet sorghum, molasses, potatoes, cellulosic materials, etc. In the Philippines, the primary source of bioethanol is sugarcane.
BENEFITS
The use of bioethanol has been gaining worldwide acceptance for the following reasons:
- It is a much cleaner fuel. Bioethanol’s high oxygen content reduces carbon monoxide levels and significantly reduces harmful exhaust emissions.
- It boosts the octane levels to help the car run smoothly. As an octane enhancer, ethanol can cut emissions of cancer-causing benzene and butadiene by more than 50%.
- It is biodegradable and has no harmful effects to the environment.
SAFETY
The World Wide Fuel Charter which was signed by major automotive manufacturers, recognizes the use of up to 10% bioethanol blend in gasoline as completely safe for most cars. Studies have shown that bioethanol, at 10% blend or less could be used without modifying vehicle engines. Beyond 10%, adjustment to the vehicle is needed to prevent damage.
AVAILABILITY
E10 (10% bioethanol blend) is currently being sold in all Seaoil Philippines stations nationwide, priced lower than unleaded gasoline. By the end of this year, more gas stations will be offering this fuel.
INITIATIVES
President Gloria Macapagal–Arroyo launched the Philippines’ Bioethanol Program in May 2005 in San Carlos, Negros Occidental when she led the groundbreaking of the country’s first bio-ethanol manufacturing plant. The program aims to replace 10 percent of the imported gasoline with domestically-produced fuel ethanol.
Ford Philippines has committed to invest P1 billion to build a plant that will make flexible fuel engines in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Flexible fuel engines can run up to 20 percent ethanol. Ford’s Flexible Fuel Vehicle Technology Project is also part of the commitment made by Ford Asia-Pacific and Africa to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to make the Philippines as its ASEAN Center of Excellence for Flexible Fuel Technology.
