New process for mixing water with diesel
A research team from the Institute of Chemistry at the University of Cologne has developed a fuel based on diesel, water and surfactants, which has the remarkable property of being thermodynamically stable. In addition, this fuel may contain a variable proportion of water.
The idea of mixing diesel or gasoline with water to improve performance is not new. It dates back to the end of the 70s. On the other hand, its practical realization is confronted with 2 major difficulties: on the one hand, the mixture is done in the form of an unstable emulsion. The liquid gradually separates into two phases, which makes its storage complicated. On the other hand, the price and the volumes of emulsifier to be used economically dissuade its use on a large scale. The discovery of the Cologne researchers solves the first problem. The new mixture is stable, ie the water remains perfectly mixed with the diesel.
The first consequence of adding water to diesel is a reduction in particulate matter and nitric oxide emissions. The reduction in particulate emissions can reach 85%. According to the research team, one can also hope to improve the efficiency of fuel consumption.
The discovery of the team of Professor Reinhard Strey of the University of Cologne revives the idea of adding water or other additives to diesel, to improve its performance. The current point of development has not yet reached its optimum level, and according to the Cologne researchers, great progress can still be expected. The team wishes to get closer to industrial partners to accelerate and promote the development of new fuels.
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