Abstract
Goal and Scope. A well-to-wheel analysis has been conducted
for cassava-based ethanol (CE) in Thailand. The aim of the analysis
is to assess the potentials of CE in the form of gasohol E10
for promoting energy security and reducing environmental impacts
in comparison with conventional gasoline (CG).
Method. In the LCA procedure, three separate but interrelated
components: inventory analysis, characterization and interpretation
were performed for the complete chain of the fuel life
cycle. To compare gasohol E10 and CG, this study addressed
their impact potentials per gasoline-equivalent litre, taking into
account the performance difference between gasohol and gasoline
in an explosion motor.
Results and Discussions. The results obtained show that CE in
the form of E10, along its whole life cycle, reduces certain environmental
loads compared to CG. The percentage reductions
relative to CG are 6.1% for fossil energy use, 6.0% for global
warming potential, 6.8% for acidification, and 12.2% for nutrient
enrichment. Using biomass in place of fossil fuels for process
energy in the manufacture of ethanol leads to improved
overall life cycle energy and environmental performance of ethanol
blends relative to CG.
Conclusions and Outlook. The LCA brings to light the key areas
in the ethanol production cycle that researchers and technicians
need to work on to maximize ethanol's contribution to
energy security and environmental sustainability