India has achieved higher ethanol production from grains, particularly maize, surpassing that from sugar-based feedstock.
Ethanol
- Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is a biofuel produced from various sources such as sugarcane, corn, rice, wheat, and biomass.
- Molasses, a byproduct of sugar manufacture, are generally the main source of production of ethanol (anhydrous alcohol) and rectified spirit.
Molasses can be categorised into following
- A Molasses (First Molasses): An intermediate by-product from initial sugar crystal extraction, containing 80-85% dry matter (DM).
- B Molasses (Second Molasses): Similar DM content as A molasses but with less sugar and no spontaneous crystallization.
- C Molasses (Final Molasses, Blackstrap Molasses, Treacle): The end by-product of sugar processing, containing significant amounts of sucrose (about 32 to 42%). It does not crystallize and is used as a commercial feed ingredient in liquid or dried form.
- The production process involves the fermentation of sugars by yeasts or via petrochemical processes such as ethylene hydration.
- Ethanol is 99.9% pure alcohol that can be blended with petrol to create a cleaner fuel alternative.
Properties of Ethanol
- Ethanol is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic wine-like odor and pungent taste.
- It is fully soluble in water and most organic solvents.
- In its pure form, it has a boiling point of 78.37 degrees Celsius and a melting point of -114.14 degrees Celsius.
- Ethanol is a combustible material and has a lower combustion temperature than gasoline, making it a cleaner-burning alternative.
Applications of Ethanol
- Beverages: Ethanol is the type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages. It is consumed socially in various forms, such as beer, wine, and spirits.
- Industrial Solvent: Due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances, ethanol is used as a solvent in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, perfumes, and other products.
- Medical and Laboratory Uses: Ethanol is used as an antiseptic, disinfectant, and preservative in medical and laboratory settings.
- Chemical Feedstock: It serves as a feedstock for the production of various chemicals.
- Fuel: It is used as a biofuel and is often mixed with gasoline to produce ethanol-blended fuels.