Introduction

Abstract

The prime task in a work of this kind is to determine the likelihood of need for the materials under discussion, and therefore for the work itself. For this reason, chapter 2 explores briefly the overall reserves and consumption rates of energy, seeking the probability or otherwise of a shortfall in the foreseeable future. The prediction of such an event is found to figure in the conclusions of so many energy studies that the relevance of the work appears to be established. The following firm statements lend support to this conclusion,

‘Alternative fuels will be needed on an enormous scale’

(Workshop on Alternative Energy Strategies, Chart. mech. Engr, Sept. 1977, 27)

‘Synthetic fuels generally are expected to become significant forms of energy supply before the end of this century’

(W. L. Lom and A. F. Williams, Substitute Natural Gas, Applied Science, London, 1976)