Methanol As An Alternative Transportation Fuel

Methanol as an Alternative Transportation Fuel

Among the alternative transportation fuels more frequently discussed today are ethanol and methanol. This study reviews, on the basis of available information, recent developments in the Canadian gasoline market and examines the likely developments in sourcing, pricing and competition of these alcohol fuels, in relation to each other and to gasoline in the regional markets. The study also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of 6 oxygenates which have been considered as fuel additives for octane enhancement in Canada as well as their use to date; and the implications of using ethanol and methanol as alternative fuel sources for the stakeholders involved and suggests the necessary pre-steps which will be required in order to maintain harmony between all the players affected by this industry.

This monograph is based on methanol as a fuel for transportation sector, specifically for compression ignition (CI) engines. The contents present examples of utilization of methanol as a fuel for CI engines in different modes of transportation such as railroad, personal vehicles or heavy duty road transportation. The book also focuses on effect of methanol on combustion and performance characteristics of the engine. The effect of methanol on exhaust emission production, prediction and control is also discussed. It also discusses current methanol utilization and its potential, its effect on the engine in terms of efficiency, combustion, performance, pollutants formation and prediction. Part of the chapters are based on review of state-of-the-art while other chapters are dedicated to an original research. This volume will be a useful guide to professionals and academics involved in alternative fuels, compression ignition engines, and environmental research.

In early 1990, a study was undertaken to examine and compare the usefulness of natural gas, propane, methanol and ethanol in relation to gasoline and diesel fuel for potential use in the transportation industry. The study evaluated the potential environmental and economic benefits of each of the fuels examined, including the characteristics of each alternative fuel, the current and proposed regulations and emission requirements for the vehicle fleet, the use of alternate fuels internationally, and conversion scenarios for each fuel.