Fuels (motor)

Fuels are chemical substances whose energy content is used to generate power or drive through combustion or other forms of energy conversion. In German, fuels are often equated with the terms propellant and combustible, although there are clear distinctions between these terms.

Definition
Fuels are specific chemical substances that are used in technical systems to generate energy. They are often in liquid or gaseous form and are mainly used in vehicle drives, whereby the use of different types of fuel depends on their physical properties and chemical composition.

Background / Origin
Classic fuels such as petrol and diesel are obtained by fractional distillation of crude oil in refineries. Alternative fuels, including bioethanol and rapeseed oil, are produced by methods such as alcoholic fermentation or transesterification. In Germany, the fuel market is highly regulated, which is reflected in the implementation of European legislation such as the Fuel Quality Ordinance (BImSchV).

In addition, various additives are added to fuels to improve their properties such as knock resistance and cold starting properties. When analyzing fuels, it should be noted that the physical comparison of calorific values (kWh/cbm) shows that fuel consumption depends not only on the energy content, but also on the density and weight per liter.

The quality of fuels in Germany is defined by standards such as DIN EN 228 for unleaded gasoline and DIN EN 590 for diesel fuels. Biofuels are regulated by specific standards and can be blended with fossil fuels, which promotes the development towards more sustainable energy sources.

Properties
Fuels are made up of various chemical and physical components. The classic fuels include

- Gasoline (petrol): Obtained from petroleum, has a high flammability at room temperature.
- Diesel fuel: Also made from crude oil, has a higher energy density.
- Biofuels: Like biodiesel and bioethanol, obtained through biological processes.

Physical characteristics:
- Liquid fuels are highly flammable at room temperature.
- Natural gas requires high temperatures (approx. 600°C) and pressure to ignite.

The quality of the fuels is subject to strict regulatory requirements to ensure a high level of safety and efficiency in use. Physical properties such as calorific value, density and specific weight are decisive for the comparison and application of fuels.

Application and importance in the market
Fuels are essential for powering vehicles and for industrial applications. A clear distinction between the different types of fuel is necessary, as they have different properties and applications. In Germany, fuels such as diesel and petrol, including their biogenic variants, are used in transportation and industry.

Market regulation and quality requirements, such as the BImSchV, provide a framework for the development, marketing and use of fuels. In addition, Germany is a country with few raw materials and is dependent on imports, although biofuels are also produced domestically.

Differentiation from similar terms
- Fuel: General term for chemical substances used to generate energy.
- Propellant: Refers to fuels that are used for direct combustion in internal combustion engines.
- Fuel: Includes all materials that are burned to generate energy, can also include solid and liquid substances.

Summary
Fuels are chemical substances that are used to generate energy through combustion or other conversion processes. They include traditional fuels such as gasoline and diesel as well as alternative fuels. They are largely produced by refineries, whereby quality standards must be strictly adhered to. Fuels are essential for various sectors and are influencing the energy transition, particularly through the integration of biofuels into the market.