GS 164 - Fryer Oil to Freeways: Biodiesel

Institution:

Mount Mercy University

Subject:

Description:

Millions of gallons of petroleum diesel fuel are sold annually in Iowa for use in transportation vehicles, agricultural equipment, and as home heating oil. Fossil fuels are nonrenewable and their use contributes to green house gas emissions that are closely linked to the important issue of global warming. A renewable fuel such as biodiesel is a viable alternative. This course will introduce students to this renewable fuel and will examine North American energy consumption, efficiency and how these relate to pollution and climate change. We will also examine the geopolitics of oil and its production limits. The pros and cons of biodiesel will be examined and we will consider feed stocks used for production of biodiesel, including use of waste vegetable oil. The elementary chemistry of biodiesel production will be convered, as will quality control testing of the final product. Students will actually produce a mini batch of biodiesel fuel.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.mtmercy.edu

Phone Number:

(319) 363-8213

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Four-one-four plan

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