The world is currently consuming about 85 million barrels of oil a day, and about two-thirds as much natural gas equivalent, both derived from non-renewable natural sources. In the foreseeable future, our energy needs will come from any available alternate source. Methanol is one such viable alternative, and also offers a convenient solution for efficient energy storage on a large scale. In this updated and enlarged edition, renowned chemists discuss in a clear and readily accessible manner the pros and cons of humankind's current main energy sources, while providing new ways to overcome obstacles. Following an introduction, the authors look at the interrelationship of fuels and energy, and at the extent of our non-renewable fossil fuels. They also discuss the hydrogen economy and its significant shortcomings. The main focus is on the conversion of CO2 from industrial as well as natural sources into liquid methanol and related DME, a diesel fuel substitute that can replace LNG and LPG. The book is rounded off with an optimistic look at future possibilities. A forward-looking and inspiring work that vividly illustrates potential solutions to our energy and environmental problems.

Ch. 1 Introduction 1 Ch. 2 Coal in the industrial revolution, and beyond 11 Ch. 3 History of oil and natural gas 18 Ch. 4 Fossil fuel resources and uses 27 Ch. 5 Diminishing oil and gas reserves 51 Ch. 6 The continuing need for hydrocarbons and their products 60 Ch. 7 Fossil fuels and climate change 72 Ch. 8 Renewable energy sources and atomic energy 84 Ch. 9 The hydrogen economy and its limitations 133 Ch. 10 The "methanol economy" : general aspects 168 Ch. 11 Methanol as a fuel and energy carrier 173 Ch. 12 Production of methanol from syn-gas to carbon dioxide 209 Ch. 13 Methanol-based chemicals, synthetic hydrocarbons and materials 246 Ch. 14 Future perspectives 254