Potential of low and zero-carbon fuels in high-efficiency clean combustion engines

Achieving the European Green Deal objectives and global net-zero targets requires rapid decarbonization of the transport sector, which remains a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. While electrification is expanding, long vehicle lifecycles and infrastructure limitations necessitate complementary low-carbon solutions that can be integrated into existing engine platforms. Ammonia (NH₃) is emerging as a strategic zero-carbon energy carrier because it contains no carbon, can be produced from renewable electricity, and benefits from established global storage and distribution infrastructure. However, its slow ignition and poor combustion reactivity limit direct application in internal combustion engines. This research evaluates the use of small quantities of dimethyl ether (DME) as an ignition promoter to enable stable and efficient ammonia combustion under multiple operating modes. The results demonstrate that minimal DME addition significantly enhances ignition reliability, combustion stability, and efficiency while maintaining low carbon emissions. By enabling the use of ammonia in existing engine technologies, this work supports near-term emission reduction strategies, strengthens energy security by reducing fossil fuel dependence, and contributes to Indo-French scientific collaboration aligned with European climate and innovation policies.