Pune Scientists Develop DME Gas as Alternative Fuel to LPG amid a global shortage
Pune: Amid a global shortage of LPG caused by ongoing conflict in Middle East, scientists at the National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) in Pune have achieved a breakthrough by developing Dimethyl Ether (DME) gas, which could be used as an alternative fuel to LPG.
Dr. Tirumalaivami Raja and his team at NCL have successfully developed a catalyst required to produce DME after nearly two decades of research. Using this catalyst, the scientists have also managed to produce DME gas at a pilot level. Currently, around 250 kilograms of DME gas is being produced daily as part of the pilot project, according to a release.
DME gas can be blended with LPG
If produced on a larger commercial scale in collaboration with industrial companies, the DME gas can be blended with LPG at around eight percent. This could help reduce India’s dependence on imported fuels and offer an effective solution during LPG shortages.
Scientists say DME burns cleaner than LPG and produces a transparent flame, making it more environmentally friendly. The gas can be used independently or blended with LPG for fuel purposes. Researchers also expressed confidence that if mass production begins, DME gas could be cheaper than LPG, making it a cost-effective alternative fuel.