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Alternative fuels
Biofuels
While they cannot entirely replace petroleum, if only because there is not enough farmland available, biofuels are set to make a significant contribution to diversifying energy sources.
Supported by the public authorities (European Directive "B10") the proportion of biofuels in Europe could reach 10% by the middle of the next decade (bioethanol, 1st-generation biodiesel) and up to 25% by 2030, with the addition of 2nd-generation biofuels and synthetic fuels.
In this new energy context and drawing on its dual expertise in both engines and fuels, IFP is continuing and intensifying its work on the development of these biofuels, in collaboration with the oil, oilseed and car industries and public authorities.
IFP’s offer concerns:
Synfuels
Drawing on its very advanced skills in the development of refining processes, IFP is conducting numerous studies on synthetic fuels. These fuels, which have similar characteristics to conventional fuels, can be made from natural gas, coal or biomass. They are an interesting alternative, insofar as they can be used directly in private vehicles without special adaptation of the engine technology.
IFP’s offer current focuses on:
- the production of synthetic fuels from coal
- the production of synthetic fuels from natural gas
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the production of synthetic fuels from biomass.
Natural gas
Among the alternative solutions available, natural gas-powered vehicles will also have their part to play. With an excellent performance in terms of CO2 emissions, especially when they are hybrid, engines running on natural gas are destined to become increasingly widely used, particularly for public transport fleets.
IFP proposes a comprehensive offer linked to the use of gas fuels.
Hydrogen
The use of hydrogen as a fuel is also one of the alternative solutions being considered to replace petroleum, but this approach still needs to overcome a number of obstacles related to the production, delivery and onboard storage of hydrogen.
IFP is focusing its studies on the various ways of producing hydrogen.
+ Research themes > Diversified fuels
