Fig.7 Methanolfuel distribution
(October1996-March 1997)
Fig. 7 shows the state of methanol fuel distribution in Japan. 890 tons of methanol was Consumed for automotive use over a half-year period.
Dyeing process considerations
Three cases with different dyeing points were considered in the above distribution process. The problems of each case are shown in Tabie 7, Dyeing at the 2nd stock point seems to be preferable from perspectives of cost and safety. Thus, the cost simulation was conducted for the case of dyeing at the 2nd stock point. The results are indicated in Fig.8. The main factors in the cost increase are methods of mixing dye and transport costs.
A minimum cost increase is achieved by manual mixing and by transport with a common methanol tank truck for chemicals. It was estimated that the additional cost would be 2.9 Yen/L.This corresponds to about 6.7% of the current retail price of automotive methanol.
Conclusions
The three-year-study, including tests for health impact and quality deterioration,
Table 7 Problems of dyeing methanol
Fig. 9 Acid blue 9
tests on engine exhaust emissions, etc., and fuel cost simulation, proved Acid blue 9 (AB9) to be acceptable as a dye for neat methanol fuel. The chemical formula of AB9 is shown in Fig.9. It was estimated that the retail price for dyed methanol fuel would be about 6.7% higher than that for current methanol fuel.
Acknowledgement
This study was conducted by organizing an investigative committee under a grant of The Nippon Foundation. Cooperation of the members of the committee is gratefully acknowledged.
