Compressed Natural Gas (CNG): Full Form, Properties, Advantages, and History

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a fuel that stands as a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels like gasoline, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

What is Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)?

Compressed Natural Gas, abbreviated as CNG, is a form of natural gas that has been compressed to less than 1 of the volume it occupies at standard atmospheric pressure. This process makes it easier to store and transport, often in cylindrical or spherical containers. Unlike the natural gas supplied through countryside pipelines, which is at a normal pressure of 1.5-2 bar, CNG is typically supplied in cylinders at a high pressure of 200 bar due to compression. This high-pressure variation allows for efficient storage and distribution.

The Full Form of CNG

The full form of CNG is Compressed Natural Gas. It is a fossil fuel substitute for gasoline and diesel. Unlike these conventional fuels, CNG is cheaper, environmentally friendly, and less toxic.

Properties of CNG

CNG is a colorless, odorless, and non-corrosive compound primarily composed of methane. This means that when used in automobiles, it poses less risk in the event of a leak. The methane content makes CNG an ideal alternative to other liquid fuels, as it is lighter than air and quickly disperses once released. These properties make CNG a safer and more efficient choice for fuel.

History of CNG

The use of natural gas as a fuel for automobiles dates back to the late 1800s. The first modern natural gas engine was manufactured in the United States and shortly after World War II, many European nations began using CNG as their primary engine fuel. Over the years, CNG has been widely adopted in various industrial and transportation sectors.

Uses of CNG

CNG is primarily used as a substitute for gasoline in automobiles. It is also utilized in oil reservoirs, sewage treatment plants, and landfill sites. The process of compressing natural gas brings it to less than 1 of the standard atmospheric pressures, making it suitable for storage in tanks that are either cylindrical or spherical in shape and held at a pressure of 20-25 megapascals.

Advantages of CNG

Compressed Natural Gas offers several advantages over traditional fossil fuels:

Cost-Effective: CNG is generally cheaper than diesel and petrol, making it an economically viable alternative for running buses and other automobiles. Lower Maintenance Costs: Vehicles running on CNG require less maintenance when compared to those running on diesel or petrol. Environmentally Friendly: Compared to gasoline and diesel, CNG releases fewer harmful and unnecessary gases, making it a more eco-friendly option. Auto Ignition Temperature: CNG requires a high auto ignition temperature of 549°C or higher, making it a safer fuel to handle.

Invention and Development

The first experiments with compressed gases took place in France in the 1850s. During World War I, natural gas was first used as a transport fuel. In the 1960s, Columbia Natural Gas of Ohio conducted tests with CNG carriers, marking a significant milestone in the commercial adoption of CNG technology.

Overall, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a highly efficient and versatile fuel that offers numerous advantages over traditional fossil fuels. Its adoption continues to grow as the world seeks safer and more sustainable energy options.