Can Flammable Ice Be Applied to Automobiles?

[StRyan]

Flammable ice can be applied to automobiles, but it is still an immature topic at present. The relevant overview and advantages of flammable ice are as follows: Relevant Overview of Flammable Ice: The scientific name of flammable ice is natural gas hydrate, mostly distributed in terrestrial permafrost zones or deep-sea sediments 900 to 1200 meters below the sea surface. It is a solid crystalline substance formed by the combination of petroleum, natural gas, and water molecules under high pressure and low-temperature conditions, mostly appearing white or light gray in color. Its appearance resembles ice and can burn upon ignition, hence it is also known as flammable ice, gas ice, or solid gas. Advantages of Flammable Ice: The currently discovered reserves of flammable ice are approximately twice the combined total of fossil fuels, and it is globally recognized by scientists as a substitute energy source for petroleum and natural gas. Compared to petroleum and natural gas, flammable ice has advantages such as convenient use, high combustion value, and being clean and pollution-free, producing only small amounts of carbon dioxide and water after combustion.

[MacAlex]

As someone who frequently studies car engines, I don't think using flammable ice in vehicles is a straightforward choice. Flammable ice is essentially a solid composed of methane and water, which requires high-pressure and low-temperature conditions for storage. This imposes extremely high demands on vehicle structures, making it prone to leaks and safety hazards. Existing vehicle engines would require major modifications to adapt, and the combustion efficiency isn't as stable as gasoline. Environmentally speaking, methane released during leaks would exacerbate the greenhouse effect, making it even more troublesome than burning gasoline. I'm more optimistic about electric vehicles or biofuels—they are technologically mature and easier to popularize. Short-term automotive applications are unlikely; we need to develop safer storage and transportation methods instead of just chasing trendy fuels while overlooking practical risks.

[Judy]

From an environmental perspective, I believe discussing the use of flammable ice as automotive fuel is necessary but requires caution. Although it has high energy density and can partially replace fossil fuels, the extraction and combustion processes are prone to methane leakage—a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide—which could inadvertently harm the planet. Applying it to vehicles would entail constructing new refueling stations and tackling emission control challenges, making it both costly and environmentally unfriendly. I think promoting pure electric vehicles or wind-powered solutions would be better; they are clean, efficient, cost-effective, and can reduce the global carbon footprint. Instead of chasing novelties, balancing ecology and cost is the right path.

[MaggieAnn]

As an average car owner, I prioritize affordability and practicality. While combustible ice sounds cutting-edge for automotive use, widespread adoption would be too costly. The expensive storage equipment and cumbersome vehicle modifications are already burdensome with current fuel prices—adding new technologies would surely send costs soaring. Keeping it simple with electric or gasoline-powered vehicles is sufficient. From an economic standpoint, it's not cost-effective unless industrialized mass production brings significant cost reductions. Otherwise, it makes more sense to save money and keep driving older vehicles for a few more years.