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As soon as the raw material is taken out of the
ground, it is already changing. Processing of
hydrocarbons is done usually on site. This is
cleaning the oil or gas before it is shipped. About
two thirds of the petroleum in Canada does not have
to be extensively processed before it can be
refined.
New forms of hydrocarbons are being developed,
which cuts down on the amount of
processing and refining needed. Fuel ethanol is a
high octane, water free alcohol made from fermented
sugar or converted starch taken from grains. Ethanol
blended gasoline are available in many gas stations.
They perform well in combustion engines and emit
fewer greenhouse gases. Biodiesel is similarly used
for diesel engines. It is made from vegetable or
animal oils, and processed into fatty acid methyl
esters. Again, it can reduce the number of
greenhouse gas emissions and smog.
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Heritage Community Foundation Presents
