As conflict in the Middle East continues to ripple through global oil markets, India is looking to expand production of dimethyl ether (DME), an alternative that could help deal with ongoing LPG disruptions.
A government-run research institute is studying ways to boost fuel production, which scientists say could help address supply challenges associated with LPG. CSIR National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) recently set up a DME pilot plant and is now planning to scale up the facility. Researchers at the laboratory told ET that the fuel has the potential to act as a local substitute for LPG, which is widely used for cooking.
The push comes at a time when LPG prices have risen sharply following disruptions in global supply chains.
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“Replacing LPG with DME does not require any change in existing infrastructure like cylinders, gaskets, regulators, hoses or burners,” NCL Director Ashish Lele told ET.Standards for blending DME with LPG have already been set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for domestic, commercial and industrial applications.
What is DME?
DME or Dimethyl ether is produced industrially from methanol, which can be obtained from dry biomass, coal or even captured carbon dioxide. The fuel shares similar properties with LPG and can be blended with LPG in different proportions. According to scientists involved in the project, replacing LPG with DME would not require modifications to existing cooking fuel infrastructure. Cylinders, gaskets, regulators, hoses and burners already in use will continue to operate without changes.