CNG Alternative Fuels
CNG alternative fuels are one of the newest designs for a viable option to replace gasoline and diesel. CNG stands for compressed natural gas and functions nearly the same as traditional fossil fuels within an internal combustion engine. A wide variety of companies and governments have moved to this as a solution for growing energy needs, most notably in Europe and South America.
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Features
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CNG alternative fuels are made from natural gas that is compressed to less than 1 percent of its volume. It is stored in pressurized cylindrical containers with hard shells at a rate of 2900 to 3200 psi.
Function
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As used as an alternative fuel in internal combustion engines, CNG represents a viable option to replace traditional gasoline. The existing fleet of automobiles can be converted to run off of compressed natural gas with minimal effort.
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Significance
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According to the U.S. Department of Energy, natural gas reserves in the United States may be as high as 1190.62 trillion cubic feet, nearly as much as in the Middle East. This means that CNG can be used as a substitute for oil for many years.
Considerations
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With the continuing concern over the environmental impact of fossil fuels, CNG alternative fuels offers a solution to the greenhouse gas problem. The main component of natural gas is methane, which produces half as much pollution as oil according to the Energy Information Administration.
Misconceptions
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While CNG alternative fuel can replace gasoline, it is still a nonrenewable resource. With finite reserves, it will also eventually run out, causing the same challenges in finding new fuels that can be used as replacements.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Arz1969, Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:CNGlogo.svg
