October 23rd, 2009
Liquids from methane could be better than mere gas(oline)
American researchers have developed a method of converting methane from gas into useful liquids. What the research discovered: efficient methods for turning methane into methanol or other liquids that are easily transported and used. Methane and methanol burn much cleaner than more complex organic fuels. It can also be produced from waste products like manure and garbage.
In the past it took considerable energy to convert methane from gas to another compound or to liquify it. Now research shows it may be possible to go from methaneto methanol through use of a metal catalyst, saving enormous amounts of energy.
Methane is CH4 so it’s comubstion by-oproducts are CO2 and H20. Pure methanol, CH3OH, is also carbon and hydrogen with one oxygen atom. Both produce emissions that can be captured.
A newsman since 1969, Harry Fuller has worked for CBS, ABC, CNBC Europe, CNET and was founding news director at TechTV. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
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