Beyond Oil and Gas
In this masterpiece, the renowned chemistry Nobellaureate, George A. Olah, discusses in a clear and readily accessible manner the use of methanol as a viable alternative to dangerous and dwindling energy resources. He looks at the pros and cons of our current main energy sources, namely atomic energy, oil and natural gas, hydrogen and alternate energies, and provides ways to overcome certain obstacles.Following an introduction Olah looks at the interrelation of fuels and energy, and at the extent of our non-renewable fossil fuel resources. Despite the diminishing resources and global warming, the author covers the continuing need for hydrocarbons and their products, while balancing the envisioned hydrogen economy against its shortcomings. The main section thenfocuses on the methanol economy, including converting atmospheric carbon dioxide into safe liquid methanol to for fuel (and fuel cells) and as a raw material for hydrocarbons. The whole is rounded off with a glimpse into the future.A forward-looking and inspiring work regarding the major challenges of future energy and environmental problems.