Material Compatibility, Technical Challenges and Modifications Required for DME Adaptation in Compression Ignition Engines

Abstract

Global environmental challenges because of pollution caused by diesel engines can be resolved by employing dimethyl-ether (DME) as an alternative fuel in place of conventional mineral diesel. DME can be used as a next-generation fuel in existing compression ignition (CI) engines because of the ultra-low emission (soot and NOx) discharged. It is a renewable and environmentally attractive fuel due to plentiful available of feedstock resources and fuel properties. It is a gaseous fuel at normal pressure and temperature, and hence, modifications in engine components are necessary to deploy DME as fuel in CI engines. In this chapter, variety of methods for DME production and its physical and chemical characteristics are discussed. DME chemistry and properties have adverse impact on components of existing diesel engines. Hardware modifications required to resolve these technical challenges and material compatibility issues with DME in CI engines are also summarized. Different CI engines components connected to fuel supply equipment are reviewed, and changes or modifications recommended for adoption of DME compatible material are included. Components such as fuel tank, fuel supply lines, valves, filters, fuel feed pump, fuel high pressure pump and fuel injectors were required to be modified for DME application as fuel in CI engines. An engineering approach for utilization of DME in CI engines is studied for vehicular adaptation. DME vehicle development efforts worldwide are also included in this chapter.