Natural gas – fossil energy

Natural gas is a fossil fuel whose resources are substantial and whose proven reserves are steadily increasing. It has a natural place as a fuel for industrial and transportation applications. Whatever its field of application, this hydrocarbon offers specific advantages that make it a strategic alternative both in the search for viable energy diversification, and in expanding the supply of conventional liquid fuels.

This article, divided into two parts [BM 2 591] and [BM 2 592] , examines natural gas as an internal combustion engine fuel for land transport vehicles. Although they represent very important markets, marine, stationary and cogeneration applications, as well as railway applications, are not covered, given that the technologies discussed in this article are for a large part similar to those used for these applications. The aim, therefore, is to provide a sufficiently broad overview to cover the main elements needed to estimate the potential of this gaseous fuel. For the sake of honesty, the advantages and disadvantages have been systematically presented, as this article is not intended to promote the natural gas vehicle sector, even if it does contribute to this, but, once again, to provide the most relevant elements for assessment.

After a brief presentation of natural gas as a fossil fuel, its composition and physico-chemical characteristics will be analyzed and compared with the expectations of engine manufacturers.

An analysis of the different technological approaches currently in use, and of possible future developments, is then presented in the article "Natural gas – Vehicle fuel" [BM 2 592] , taking into account the constraints specific to the use of gaseous fuel on a vehicle. Normative and fiscal contexts are partially covered in the "For further information" section.