There are many different alternatives to standard fuels currently available as we seek out new ways in which we can reduce the impact on our environment. One such fuel is Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and this is a type of fuel that is becoming widely used due to the advantages that come with it. So, in this guide, we are going to look at CNG and explore what it really is.
What is CNG?
Compressed Natural Gas or CNG as it is also known is an alternative to gasoline and is known to be better for the environment. It is made by compressing methane, which is a natural gas down to 1% of its volume and it is known to be safer than diesel and gasoline as it does not contaminate groundwater and it is not toxic. Essentially, this is the same gas that is used to heat homes but with the range of benefits that it offers over gasoline or diesel, it is now becoming used on a wider scale in both commercial and non-commercial vehicles.
How is it Better for the Environment?
There are many different future fuels being manufactured but the reality is that sustainable fuels have to be better for the environment as that is the aim on a global scale.
However, CNG is better for the environment as it causes fewer emissions and it is known to be one of the cleanest burning fuels currently available. This fuel is also known to reduce carbon monoxide by as much as 97% and this makes it hugely beneficial for the environment. To give an idea of how much better it is, if a truck is converted to CNG, then this is the equivalent of removing as many as 325 cars off the road. Furthermore, it is also better for our health as it reduces the number of soot particles in the atmosphere and that can help to reduce problems associated with respiratory conditions.
The Advantages and Disadvantages
As with all alternative fuels and biofuels, they come with a range of advantages but they also come with disadvantages too. As a result, they make excellent transitional fuels but they might not be the solution we are looking for.
The Advantages
CNG is a cost-effective alternative when compared with other fuels and it helps to extend running times while also reducing engine noise, which in turn can improve noise pollution. Furthermore, it is non-toxic and does not contaminate groundwater while it can reduce both carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, both of which cause damage to our environment.
The Disadvantages
When it comes to the disadvantages, CNG might be cost-effective but it is expensive to convert while it also comes with challenges in relation to storing it. Along with this, there is a limited availability which means that it cannot be used on a wider scale yet.
In our quest to find cleaner fuels, there is no denying that CNG has potential but there are other options available such as HVO and LNG. Also, as research and investment grows, it is highly likely that new alternatives will also come to market.
