The need to reduce dependence on the use of oil has driven studies aimed at the development of new alternatives in fuel production. In this sense, bioethanol has become an effective option, as it is a renewable source originating from plant products.
Bioethanol is a fuel obtained through controlled fermentation and the distillation of plant residues, such as sugarcane bagasse, sugar beet, wheat or corn. All these products undergo physical-chemical processes (delignification, fermentation, distillation, etc.) until they are transformed into fuels.
The final product is highly energetic and can be used in cars adapted for this type of fuel. The production is more expressive with the use of sugarcane as raw material, since its fermentation already provides sugars. Approximately 6,800 liters of bioethanol are produced with 80 tons of sugarcane.
Experts claim that the use of bioethanol is extremely advantageous, as the raw material in The manufacture of this substance is renewable, unlike petroleum, which will deplete itself of nature in some decades. Another positive aspect refers to the emission of polluting gases - burning this fuel is not so aggressive to the environment, thus contributing to the reduction of gases responsible for intensifying the greenhouse effect.
However, a portion of society is against the use of bioethanol, claiming that the raw material used in manufacturing (sugar cane, corn, among others) could be used to feed various people. Opponents also claim that land destined for planting the raw material for bioethanol should be replaced by the cultivation of other foodstuffs.
By Wagner de Cerqueira and Francisco
Graduated in Geography
Brazil School Team
Biofuels - Fuels- geography - Brazil School
