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Project Code [2007-FS-ET-13-S5]
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Project title
Emerging new nano-technologies for separation of ethanol and water for bio-ethanol production
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
University College Cork (UCC)
Lead Applicant
Donal Keane
Project Abstract
Renewable energy sources are a cornerstone of environmental policy. Ethanol is the most promising biofuel. As petrol additive it increases octane number and combustion efficiency but decreases exhaust emissions. Increasing petroleum costs are making bioethanol commercially viable. An azeotrope limits distillation to 95% ethanol/water mixtures but for fuel use the ethanol must be anhydrous. Various methods for dehydration exist but add significant costs. Pervaporation (PV) is emerging as the most environmentally sound method for dehydration but is in its infancy. This proposal seeks to study a series of novel nanomaterials emerging from UCC for use in the PV process.
Grant Approved
�186,695.87
Research Hub
Green and Circular Economy
Research Theme
Waste and Resources Management
Initial Projected Completion Date
01/11/2009