The ASTM subcommittee on LP gases formed a task force to develop the specification for DME, and propane industry leaders were part of the process. ASTM D7901, the specification’s official designation, provides guidance for fuel producers, engine and component suppliers, and infrastructure developers on DME purity, testing, safety, and handling.
Over time, the task force plans for the ASTM specification to also cover the blending of DME with propane.
Blending the two fuels is one area that intrigues the industries, as blending up to 20 percent DME with propane usually requires no modifications to equipment or distribution networks, industry officials say. It’s already being done internationally. Ultimately propane industry leaders view DME blending as a way for propane to gain renewable fuel status and possible future tax incentives.
Defining DME
More than 5 million tons of DME are produced annually worldwide from various feedstocks, mostly through methanol dehydration, the International DME Association reports. Feedstocks include renewable materials (biomass, waste, wood and agricultural products) and fossil fuels (natural gas and coal). China is a major producer of DME from coal.
DME is popular in domestic cooking and heating when blended with LP gas, particularly in developing countries seeking benefits in price, economics, demand for clean fuels and energy security. DME is also becoming a promising alternative vehicle fuel.”