Abstract

The article is devoted to the problem of comprehensive evaluation of the efficiency of the use of various alternative fuels obtained from natural gas (NG) in a total life cycle (TLC). Despite the fact that all types of motor fuel under consideration are produced from NG, the energy and environmental consequences of their use may vary significantly. Goals of this research are: developing TLC mathematical models of a power unit operating on motor fuels obtained from NG (compressed NG, liquefied NG, methanol, dimethyl ether, synthetic diesel fuel and hydrogen) and conducting a simulation in order to determine energy and environmental indicators for the use of the considered fuel types. The results of simulation allow to choose the most promising types of alternative fuels according to the criteria of energy efficiency and a level of environmental pollution by harmful substances and greenhouse gases.