Clean Fuels and Efficient Transportation: Liquefied Petroleum Gas
ECMD Contact: Colin Messer |
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is made up of a number of hydrocarbons. Propane (C3H8) makes up typically no less than 90 percent of the composition of LPG in the U.S, with the balance primarily being butane and propylene. Propane like butane (C4H10) is derived from natural gas or crude oil. Most propane produced in New Mexico comes from natural gas. While LPG is most commonly known as a heating fuel or a component in petrochemical production, LPG is widely consumed around the world as a transportation fuel – commonly referred to as autogas. Unlike compressed natural gas, which is chiefly methane (CH4), LPG is stored as a liquid under much lower pressure than compressed natural gas (100 psig vs. 3,600 psig). LPG is closer to gasoline in its stored volumetric energy content, making LPG tanks lighter and more compact for the energy stored than compressed natural gas. There are 350,000 LPG vehicles on the road in the US today and 4,000,000 worldwide. Currently, a number of pickups, vans, school buses and assorted utility vehicles are available from original equipment manufacturers. Refueling for LPG is widespread – available at most LPG/propane dealers as well as recreation vehicle campsites and many retail outlets. Additional Information |