Dimethyl Ether (DME) is a next-generation, ultra-clean synthetic fuel with the chemical formula CH₃–O–CH₃. It is an oxygenated ether offering exceptional combustion efficiency, high cetane number, and near-zero particulate emissions, making it a strong alternative to conventional diesel.
DME can be produced from natural gas, coal, refinery residues, biomass, municipal solid waste, and renewable hydrogen-based pathways. When sourced renewably, DME becomes a low-carbon or carbon-neutral fuel, supporting global decarbonization goals.
Production Process of DME
Two-Step Process:
Syngas production → Methanol synthesis → Catalytic dehydration to DME
Single-Step Direct Synthesis:
Direct conversion of syngas to DME using bifunctional catalysts (higher efficiency)
Renewable & Bio-DME:
Produced via biomass gasification or Power-to-X pathways with carbon-neutral lifecycle emissions
Key Performance Characteristics
Zero soot formation and ultra-low particulate emissions
Up to 95% reduction in PM compared to diesel
High cetane number (55–60) for fast ignition
Lower NOₓ with optimized injection timing
Sulfur-free and non-toxic
High oxygen content (~35%) for complete combustion
Lower CO₂ per unit energy than diesel
Mechanical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CH₃–O–CH₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 46.07 g/mol |
| Cetane Number | 55 – 60 |
| Boiling Point | -24.9 °C |
| Liquid Density (20°C) | ~0.66 kg/L |
| Lower Heating Value | 28 – 29 MJ/kg |
| Oxygen Content | ~35% |
| Sulphur Content | 0% |
Storage, Handling & Safety
Stored as a liquefied gas under moderate pressure (5–10 bar)
Infrastructure similar to LPG systems
Requires compatible elastomers and seals
Non-corrosive to metals
Non-carcinogenic and environmentally safe
Engine Compatibility & Modifications
Compatible with compression ignition engines with minor adaptations:
Modified injectors and fuel pumps
Lubricity additives required
Pressurized fuel tanks
Ethanol- and DME-compatible materials
Available Commercial Forms
Compressed liquid DME (bulk)
DME–diesel blends
Cylinder and cartridge packaging
Automotive-grade and industrial-grade DME
Bio-DME / renewable DME
Applications
Heavy-duty trucks and buses
Marine auxiliary engines
Diesel generators and power systems
Industrial boilers and furnaces
LPG replacement for domestic and industrial use
Agriculture and construction machinery
Clean energy and ESG-linked projects
Regulatory & Market Outlook
Approved as transport fuel in Europe, China, Japan, and parts of the USA
Recognized under renewable and clean fuel programs
Growing demand in Asia, Middle East, and EU markets
Increasing adoption in fleet and off-grid energy systems
Why Source DME From Us?
Reliable supply from approved global producers
Consistent quality and specification compliance
Competitive international pricing
Bulk and flexible order quantities
On-time delivery across India, GCC, UK, and Europe
Technical support and end-to-end logistics handling