Is Browns Gas the Cure to our Oil Woes?

By: Adam Hefner
We are rudely reminded of rising oil prices upon each visit to the pump. Americans are spending an ever increasing portion of their incomes on gasoline. This is having destructive impact upon the overall economy reverberating throughout every corner of the country. Our addiction to imported oil has been ongoing for almost a century. Is there an alternative? Many think browns gas is the answer.

The advent of browns gas has its origins in an electrolyzer invented by Yull Brown. Many, however, point to the innovation represented by William Rhode's initial electrolyzer design in 1966. These machines were the genesis of a process of electrolysis which turns water into a combustible substance. The applications of such a product are obviously widespread.

The negative impacts of imported oil are manifold. In terms of geopolitics, our addiction to oil has led to conflict and substantial associated expense. This expense has not only been financial, but also one paid in blood. The prospect of being able to replace our imported oil needs with water has not only benefits to drivers but would go a ways towards facilitating world peace.

Another well known externality of our oil consumption are its resultant impacts upon the environment. The carbons emitted from gasoline use are contributing to the world's rising temperatures. Although there remains debate in the scientific community to what extent global warming is occurring, the consensus overwhelmingly is now that the phenomenon does exist.

Browns goes by several other names. It has been referred to as Rhodes Gas, Greengas, or Hydroxy. Whatever you call it, the final product requires substantial amounts of energy to support the electrolysis needed for production. Many argue that this route would simply shift demand for transportation energy to already overstrained power grids.

However, the requirements necessary to further build out traditional power supply are within America's grasp domestically. We have abundant coal which is currently the main commodity supporting our power grid. Granted, there are adverse environmental impacts from the burning of coal as well. However, clean coal technology is advancing everyday.

Another alternative is nuclear. France now supports virtually its entire power grid from the use of nuclear energy. Nuclear power plants do not emit any greenhouse gases. Supplies of uranium are sufficient to support nuclear power for a long time. However, its drawback is storage of nuclear waste which needs to be addressed before further build out of infrastructure.

There are many intriguing possibilities from browns gas. Given the right path to provide the electricity needed for its production, it can work miracles for both our economy and our standing in the world. Science must further pursue its refinement and fully explore avenues for widespread adoption.
Mileage and Fuel
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 
 • 

» More on Mileage and Fuel