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Original Experimental Approach for Assessing Transport Fuel Stability
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Environmental Sustainability of Lighter Fluids
Edit Cséfalvay1, Viktória Kovács1
1Department of Energy Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Muegyetem rkp. 3., H-1111 Budapest, Hungary.
ACS Omega
|February 5, 2024
Summary
γ-valerolactone shows promise as a renewable alternative to conventional fossil-based lighter fluids. This biomass-derived chemical outperformed others in safety, toxicity, and environmental assessments, warranting further investigation for commercial use.
Area of Science:
- Renewable energy and green chemistry.
- Sustainable consumer products development.
Background:
- Conventional lighter fluids rely on fossil fuels, presenting an opportunity for renewable alternatives.
- Assessing biomass-derived chemicals is crucial for sustainable product development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate physicochemical, toxicological, and environmental properties of biomass-based chemicals as potential lighter fluid replacements.
- To identify a viable renewable alternative to fossil-based lighter fluids through comprehensive analysis.
Main Methods:
- Physicochemical properties (flash point, boiling point, vapor pressure, evaporation rate) were assessed for conventional and biomass-based fluids.
- Oral toxicity in rats and ethanol equivalent values were determined for environmental and safety comparisons.
- Multicriteria analysis integrated safety, toxicity, and environmental data to rank potential candidates.
Main Results:
- γ-valerolactone demonstrated superior performance across safety, toxicity, and environmental metrics compared to fossil-based fluids and other biomass candidates.
- The multicriteria analysis ranked γ-valerolactone highest, indicating its potential as a sustainable lighter fluid.
- While promising, further practical assessments including ignition and emission analysis are needed for commercial viability.
Conclusions:
- γ-valerolactone is a strong candidate for replacing fossil-based lighter fluids due to its favorable properties.
- This study highlights the potential of biomass-derived chemicals in consumer products.
- Future research should focus on practical application testing for commercialization.
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