What kind of oil can be used as a substitute for gasoline?
3 Answers
The following fuels can be used as substitutes for gasoline: 1. Natural gas: As early as the 1860s, the French used engines fueled by coal gas. Natural gas has a high octane number, causes less air pollution, and ensures good engine startup in winter. By 1980, there were already 400,000 vehicles worldwide converted to use natural gas as a power fuel. However, using natural gas requires vehicle modifications, and the equipment at natural gas refueling stations is larger and more expensive than that at regular gas stations. 2. Hydrogen: Liquid hydrogen is an effective fuel. Experimental cars using hydrogen as fuel have already been developed. The drawbacks of liquid hydrogen are its low density and extremely low boiling point. 3. Alcohol: Many scientists believe that methanol and ethanol in alcohol are the most realistic competitors to gasoline. The challenge lies in the limited availability of raw materials for alcohol production. Japan is researching the use of seaweed as a raw material, Norway is studying the extraction of alcohol from coniferous wood, Mexico has successfully extracted alcohol from cacti, and New Zealand has achieved initial success in using orange peels to produce automotive fuel. It is estimated that 1 square meter of plants can produce 1 kilogram of fuel.
I've been driving for many years and found that ethanol E85 can partially replace gasoline, especially in newer cars with flexible fuel systems. When used directly, the effect is similar but with slightly less power. I've also tried biodiesel, which is converted from vegetable oil and compatible with some diesel engines, but gasoline cars need modifications including the fuel system and injectors, costing possibly hundreds to over a thousand dollars. Don't forget compressed natural gas (CNG), used by many taxis. By modifying the gas tank and pipelines, it can significantly save on fuel costs and the exhaust is cleaner. Modifications must be done by professional shops—safety first—and check if local gas stations supply these fuels. In daily use, these alternatives can reduce emissions and benefit the environment.
I have always advocated for green transportation, with biofuels and CNG being the top alternatives to gasoline. Biodiesel is renewable and environmentally friendly, requiring only a small amount to be blended with regular diesel for use. CNG, which is compressed natural gas, burns cleaner but involves modifications such as installing gas tanks and control systems, requiring professional certification to avoid leakage risks. In the long run, these alternatives can reduce air pollution and promote sustainable transportation. In terms of cost, CNG is cheaper, but the conversion expenses need to be factored in. Explore local policies, such as subsidies or incentive programs, to help more people transition to cleaner fuels.
