Chemistry and technology: advances in renewable fuels and advanced technology vehicles

WCC 10

Kathleen O'Leary Havelka, Kathleen.Havelka@Lubrizol.com, Consumer Products Global Business Manager, Lubrizol Corporation, 29400 Lakeland Blvd., Wickliffe, OH 44092-2298
This talk will review some of the challenges and opportunities in the fast-paced and dynamic environment of renewable fuels and advanced technology vehicles that exist for chemists and engineers today. High crude oil and fuel prices, coupled with increased tensions in the Middle East and world demand for energy, have led to significant interest in renewable fuels. Renewable fuels a offer the potential to improve air quality, decrease dependence on foreign oil, and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. The presentation will focus on the chemistry and properties of renewable fuels and vehicle modifications that are required for vehicles to be powered from these fuels. Emerging areas where technology advances in chemistry and engineering are critical will be identified. This presentation will conclude with a summary of the multidisciplinary research effort required to solve the technical problems to ultimately enable widespread development and commercialization of renewable fuels and advanced technology vehicles.