Recent advances in the combustion of renewable biofuel diethyl ether: A review

Researchers at Nanjing University of Science and Technology have published a comprehensive review in Frontiers in Energy examining the significant advances in the combustion characteristics of diethyl ether (DEE), a promising renewable biofuel alternative to conventional diesel. This review, authored by Bingkun Wu, Tianjiao Li, and Dong Liu, summarizes recent findings that underscore DEE's potential in enhancing sustainable energy solutions.

The global energy sector is continuously seeking alternatives to traditional fossil fuels to mitigate environmental impacts and meet sustainability goals. Diethyl ether has emerged as a notable candidate due to its superior ignition performance and ability to significantly reduce soot formation during combustion. However, understanding its complete combustion mechanism remains an ongoing challenge, as key coupling reaction pathways are still not fully elucidated.

The review outlines several key findings: DEE can improve engine performance and reduce emissions, whether used alone or as a blend with other fuels. It effectively limits the discharge of C3–C4 hydrocarbons, a significant contributor to soot formation. Yet, despite these advantages, some performance degradation phenomena have been observed, necessitating further research into their underlying mechanisms.

Methodologically, the review synthesizes data from a range of experimental studies exploring DEE's combustion characteristics, including pyrolysis, oxidation behaviors, and kinetic modeling. By integrating findings from various studies, the authors provide a cohesive view of DEE's potential and limitations in practical applications.

The implications of these findings are profound for both the academic and industrial sectors. DEE's use could lead to new, cleaner combustion technologies and potentially influence energy policy decisions favoring sustainable fuel alternatives. Moreover, the review highlights the importance of continued research to overcome existing challenges, such as improving the accuracy of reaction kinetic models and addressing performance issues in real-world applications.

This work was supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province, China, showcasing a collaborative effort to advance renewable energy technologies. The full review can be accessed in Frontiers in Energy through the following link: https://journal.hep.com.cn/fie/EN/10.1007/s11708-025-1024-2.

As future research directions, the authors emphasize the need for a complete research framework that spans from fundamental studies to practical engineering applications. This holistic approach aims to bridge the gap between laboratory research and the implementation of DEE as a viable fuel option in the energy sector.