Showing papers in "Chemical Engineering in 1975"

Will autos go alcoholic

Abstract: Methanol, having been judged one of the five most promising substitutes for petroleum-based gasoline by the Exxon Research and Engineering Company, is examined to determine its advantages as well as the problems involved in its utilization as a fuel for automobiles. The alcohol is as compatible with current vehicle design as any alternative fuel, and scores well on environmental, safety and toxicity grounds. Researchers also point out its ease of commercial introduction and consumer acceptance. Methanol yields more miles per Btu, but the need for more volume of fuel to get these Btus results in a lower miles-per-gallon figure. The possibility exists of producing methanol from the cellulose in waste materials, this being an additional incentive for its use. A major problem encountered in the testing of methanol/gasoline blends has been solubility. Aggravating this solubility problem are low temperatures and the presence of trace amounts of water, which cause hard-starting and stalling. Even with pure methanol, cold-starting remains a problem. Studies to further examine methanol's suitability as a replacement for gasoline and to overcome the problems encountered thus far are currently being conducted in the U.S. Sweden, and West Germany.

Ultimate disposal of spilled hazardous materials

Abstract: Factors governing the disposal of sludges and slurries recovered during the cleanup of spilled chemicals are outlined. These include analyzing the constraints identifying available options; various types of existing disposal facilities; and factors that govern a choice between land disposal, chemical treatment and long-term storage.