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Biofuel: Overview, Definition, Types, Process, Examples, and Limitations

Biofuel: Overview, Definition, Types, Process, Examples, and Limitations

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Sep 18, 2024 02:17 PM IST

Biofuel is a type of fuel that is created quickly from biomass, as opposed to the lengthy natural processes that result in the development of fossil fuels like oil. Some people confuse the terms biomass and biofuel because biomass can be used directly as fuel (such as wood logs). The term "biofuel," however, is typically only used to refer to a liquid or gaseous fuels utilised in transportation. This name convention is used by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) of the United States.

Types Of Biofuel

All parts of the world generally have access to biofuel, which mostly includes fuels like

  • Biodiesel

  • Bioethanol

  • bio methanol

Bioethanol and biodiesel are the two most popular types of biofuels currently being used. They both belong to the initial wave of biofuel technology.

Advantages Of Biofuel

  • Promotes a population that is healthier.

  • It contributes to keeping the environment cleaner.

  • No harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide (CO) and sulphur oxide(SO), are released.

  • The only emission of non-toxic compounds occurs when using biofuels in place of fossil fuels, which lowers the risk of cancer and breathing issues in people.

  • Biofuels are environmentally benign since they lower the likelihood of global warming.

Disadvantages Of Biofuel

  • The life cycle is hampered by it.

  • Cost of labour and the enormous storage space needed.

  • More water usage, particularly in dry climates.

  • The demand for agricultural land rises as a result of the generation of biofuels from biomass.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the generations for Biofuel?

First-generation [edible sugar, starch are used], second-generation [ plant dry matter or woody biomass, or agricultural residues and wastes are used], and third-generation [algae and microbes are used] are the generations of biofuels.

2. Which biofuel is the best?

Biodiesel, ethanol, and renewable diesel were proven to be the best fuel types. Lignocellulosic and first-generation carbon sources are favoured above waste biomass.

3. Examples for Biofuel.

Green diesel, which is produced from algae and other plant sources, biogas, and ethanol are some examples of biofuels. Ethanol is frequently produced from corn in the United States and sugarcane in Brazil (methane derived from animal manure and other digested organic material).

4. Are biofuels toxic for humans?

Increased incidences of heart disease, respiratory symptoms, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or even early mortality are health issues caused by the use of biofuels and gasoline.

5. How long do Biofuels last?

Use It or Lose It: Biodiesel has a shelf life of roughly six months, and the optimal storage conditions are sealed, opaque containers with little head space (to avoid water condensation).

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