Jul 1 Sponge
The US Naval Research Laboratory and the Center for Applied Energy Research at the University of Kentucky are investigating the hydrogenation of CO2 using a conventional Fischer-Tropsch cobalt catalyst for the production of valuable hydrocarbon materials. Using a straight dose of CO2 the researchers have managed to use catalysts to convert the gas and water vapor back into basic fuel products. Monday we had a look at research yielding a much more efficient CO2 collector. Now hydrogenation of CO2 is getting a little more attention. The focus of this work is attempting to improve the production distribution toward the higher chain hydrocarbons and increase conversion rates using conventional Fischer-Tropsch catalysts. Backed by the U.S. Department of Defense, the motive is clear, the Department of Defense is the single largest buyer and consumer of fuel at 12.6 million barrels per day. That’s a big fuel user. The research has been reported online June 25 in the ACS journal Energy & Fuels. Comparatively speaking, little research has been performed applying CO2 as the carbon source in synthetic fuel production, which as a blanket statement might be true, but activity in hydrogenation is ongoing. CO2 while a notability stable chemical, is thought to have too high of an energy barrier for polymerization, even in the presence of a catalyst. Gathering the CO2 to start and the processing of reforming each have energy costs to manage
Jun 27 Energy Efficiency
The development of an energy efficiency strategy incorporates analysis of energy expenditures and energy consumption. The energy strategy must incorporate dynamics between costs, budgets and the consumption of energy including the monitoring of kilowatt-hours (KWH) of electricity and liquid hydrocarbon fuels consumed. By analyzing both the financial and the energy consumption components we are better positioned to frame the scope of the energy efficiency projects. We start with a comprehensive energy audit analyzing energy consumption and expenditures. After determining which activities offer the fastest, cheapest, and greatest economic impact we are then able to define the scope of energy efficiency projects. The next step in the energy strategy process is to assess, rank and specify energy saving opportunities.
Jun 27 Lighting Design & Controls
Now you can enjoy the security of knowing when someone is near your house without any extra electricity cost. This Floodlight illuminates a broad area and is perfect for walkways, driveways, garages, and sheds and can even be installed inside of your home. The Solar Powered Motion-Activated Security Floodlight has durable weatherproof housing and a 15′ cable which allows you to place the solar panel in an ideal location. The MX40220 also has time, motion sensitivity and LUX (daylight sensitive) adjustments so it goes on when you want need it to. This light can be activated up to 150 times when on for 60 seconds at a time if it’s charged in full sunlight. The time duration can also be set from 10 seconds to 1 minute. The sensor detects motion within 180 degrees and up to 35′ away. Now you don’t have to worry that you will be caught by surprise.