The Volvo Group regards DME (dimethylether) as one of the most efficient renewable fuels with extremely low exhaust emissions.
The fuel is a simple chemical compound with a short carbon chain, which leads to very low emissions of particulate matters during combustion.
If the fuel is produced from biomass such as black liquor from the pulp industry, DME is carbon dioxide-neutral. Black liquor is a high-energy residual product of chemical paper pulp manufacture whose energy content is normally recovered by burning.
Easy to handle
DME is according to many studies the most energy-efficient renewable fuel, if we take into account the entire chain from production to operation of the vehicle. The production of biomass as a fuel takes place via a gasification technique involving low energy losses.
Compared with synthetic diesel, DME is a simpler chemical product, therefore cheaper to produce and relatively easy to handle and distribute.
Slight modifications on diesel engine
Another cost-cutting benefit is that DME can be used in ordinary diesel engines after making minor modifications. That is why drivelines tailored for DME can be used in virtually all vehicle types that run on current diesel technology.
A fuel for the future
DME has good prospects for becoming a fuel for the future since it has a high efficiency, cost effective, causes very low exhaust emissions, is non-toxic and biodegradable.