National Traffic Safety and Environment Laboratory - Saving and Diversification of Energy Resources - Low Emission and High Efficiency of Internal Combustion Engines Using Alternative Fuel (DME)

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Saving and Diversification of Energy Resources

		Low Emission and High Efficiency of Internal Combustion Engines Using Alternative Fuel (DME)
		Enhanced Energy Efficiency Methods of Hybrid Systems

		Low Emission and High Efficiency of Internal Combustion Engines Using Alternative Fuel (DME)

		Dimethyl Ether (DME) can be liquefied at low pressure and can be easily stored in cylinders. Because of these characteristics, DME is suitable as an Automobile fuel. As diesel fuel, DME ignites when it is burnt because it contains oxygen. Therefore emission of NOx can be suppressed easily. Thanks to these characteristics, high expectations are placed on DME as a new fuel with low CO2 Emissions for heavy-duty vehicles. The Laboratory is undertaking research of a fuel injection technology, combustion control and other themes to acccelerate commercialization of DME.

Fuel Storage, Supply Pipe and Safety System

Current status and problems to be solved regarding DME engines

-It is easy to start combustion in cylinder by auto-ignition.
-Low NOx and PM emissions are easily achiebable.
-Optimization of fuel injection systems and the introduction of catalytic converters are effective means of reducing unregulated pollutants.
*Spray and combustion characteristics are unsolved.
*The durability of fuel injection systems should be maintained.

Comparison of Exhaust Gas Characteristics of DME and Diesel Engines

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Independent Administrative Institution National Traffic Safety and Environment Laboratory
7-42-27, Jindaijihigashimachi, Chofu, Tokyo, 182-0012 Japan TEL:+81-422-41-3207