Emerging Alternative Fuels
Experimentation to identify new fuels is a perpetual process. Several emerging alternative fuels are under development or already developed and may be newly available in the United States. These fuels may reduce pollution, improve vehicle performance, increase energy security, contribute to an energy-efficient transportation system, and stimulate the U.S. economy.
Some of these emerging fuels are considered alternative fuels under the Energy Policy Act of 1992 and may qualify for federal and state incentives and laws:
- Biobutanol – Higher energy content, lower reid vapor pressure, increased energy security because it can be produced domestically from a variety of feedstocks while creating U.S. jobs, creates less pollution, and offers more transportable options.
- Dimethyl ether – Has a very high cetane number, virtually eliminates particulate emissions, and potentially negates the need for costly diesel particulate filters.
- Methanol -Lower production costs, lower risk of flammability, can be manufactured from a variety of domestic carbon-based feedstocks, produces near-zero emissions. Commonly called a “sustainable marine fuel” because of it is biodegradable. Methanol is completely miscible with water and degrades rapidly, causing far less environmental damage in the event of a spill. Because it stays liquid at ambient temperatures and pressures, it does not require high-pressure or cryogenic tanks like hydrogen or natural gas. Lastly, methanol can be converted into hydrogen inside a fuel cell to provide ultra-quiet, exhaust-free electrical power for luxury yachts and sailboats.
- Renewable Gasoline – Is chemically identical to and meets the same ATSM D4814 specification as petroleum gasoline, allowing its use in existing vehicles and infrastructure. Renewable gasoline can be produced domestically from a variety of feedstocks and contribute to U.S. job creation. Carbon dioxide captured by growing feedstocks reduces overall pollution by balancing carbon dioxide released from burning renewable gasoline.
Additional fuels, such as ammonia, may also meet the criteria for alternative fuels when used in limited quantities. Ammonia is a zero-carbon energy source that emits no carbon dioxide when combusted and thus is used in maritime shipping and heavy industry because it is easier to store and transport than hydrogen, liquefying at moderate pressures. Though there are many benefits to these emerging fuels, more research is needed to characterize the impacts, such as necessary vehicle modifications, required fueling infrastructure, and human health impacts.