PRODUCER GAS: ANOTHER FUEL FOR MOTOR TRANSPORT

If petroleum prices were to continue high, developing countries will be most affected. Producer gas represents a proven alternative to petroleum for fueling motor transport, although neither its practicability nor the extent of its former usage is now generally appreciated. This report introduces producer gas to researchers, agencies and institutions engaged in assisting developing countries, aiming to stimulate increased interest in testing and use of this fuel. Producer gas is generated from solid fuels such as wood, charcoal, coal, peat and agricultural residues. Prior to World War II many internal combustion engines were fueled from gas producers and during the war the use expanded rapidly. Producer gas generators are simple to make and can be used with existing engines without major modification. Gas producers can use renewable fuels. There are disadvantages: (1) In any engine producer gas generates less power than petroleum; (2) Maintenance, training and driver discipline are required to keep gasifiers operating; (3) Vehicles fueled by producer gas are cumbersome; (4) Fuel is bulky and difficult to store and handle; (5) Producer gas can be hazardous; (6) Wood use may increase deforestation; (7) In developing countries firewood shortages could develop for the poor.

• Corporate Authors:

  National Research Council

  Ad Hoc Panel, Advisory Committee on Technology Innovation
  Washington, DC  United States  20418
• Publication Date: 1983

Media Info

• Features: Appendices; Photos; Tables;
• Pagination: 101 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Alternate fuels; Developing countries; Energy resources; Equipment; Fuel gas; Internal combustion engines
• Uncontrolled Terms: Energy crisis
• Old TRIS Terms: Producer gas
• Subject Areas: Energy; Geotechnology; Highways; Materials; Planning and Forecasting; Public Transportation; Vehicles and Equipment; I72: Traffic and Transport Planning;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00387915
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 30 1984 12:00AM