Ethanol
Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol, is the most common alcohol. Its formula is C2H5OH. It is clear and colorless. Ethanol is useful mixed into gasoline because it has a higher octane number than gasoline, reducing engine knocking.[1]
It is a mild depressant when ingested, and is a common ingredient in many beverages. Besides its recreational use, ethanol is important to many industries and food preservation. Ethanol can be produced on Mars using In Situ Resources.
Contents
Production
Ethanol is produces from biomass. Most plant material can be transformed to produce methanol.[1]
Fermentation
Ethanol is most easily produced from sugars by yeasts through fermentation.
Industrial Production
Ethylene can be hydrated to produce ethanol. Ethanol may also be produced form CO and Water using a copper catalyst and electrolysis[2].
Uses
Industrial Use
Ethanol is useful as a fuel. In contrast to most other chemical energy sources, ethanol is relatively non-toxic and unreactive.
Ethanol is an effective solvent for many chemicals.
Food Preservation
Ethanol is used to preserve fruits and other foods.
Recreation
Ingestion of ethanol in food or drink causes intoxication. It is a mild depressant, and impairs judgement and reduces inhibitions. Managed use of ethanol may be used to raise morale. Ethanol ingestion will likely be restricted heavily in a settlement due to the risk to oneself and others.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 “Ethanol.” n.d. U.S. Department of Energy: Alternative Fuels Data Center.
- ↑ Ethanol form CO and water https://www.technologyreview.com/2014/04/09/173425/a-less-resource-intensive-way-to-make-ethanol/
