Can Flammable Ice Be Applied to Automobiles?
2 Answers
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.
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.
