Until recently, the idea of water in the fuel system of a diesel car sounded like a death sentence for the engine. Every experienced driver knows that moisture in the tank is the shortest route to the service station, where bills for new injectors or a fuel pump can easily exceed the 6,000 euro mark, and in the event of fatal damage to the entire unit, they can reach a staggering 15,000 euro. But paradoxically, it is precisely the "number one enemy" of diesel fuel that may prove to be the lifeline for diesel technology in Europe.
German scientists, in a publication for the prestigious Springer Nature publication, reveal a revolutionary method for drastically cutting harmful emissions by creating a special diesel-water emulsion
The key to success is not simple mixing, but precise controlled technology. During combustion, the water in the cylinders evaporates instantly, absorbing excess heat. Since nitrogen oxides are born precisely at extremely high temperatures, this cooling leads to their reduction by an impressive 60%.
Something more - here physics intervenes at the micro level. The water droplets in the fuel cloud cause a chain of “microexplosions“ that break the diesel into fine dust. This fine mist mixes much more effectively with the air, which leads to more complete combustion and a sharp drop in solid particles, which are a major thorn in the side of environmentalists.
Of course, the technology is still in “laboratory mode“ because of one main stumbling block - stability. Water and diesel, like oil and vinegar, do not like each other and quickly separate. To stay together, a special “mustard“ is needed under in the form of emulsifiers. Although experiments show stability for up to two months, this is still insufficient for the dynamic world of transport. The lower energy density of the mixture must also be taken into account, which slightly increases the specific consumption, although it softens the work of the pistons.
Despite these challenges, giants like BMW are in no hurry to write off diesel, seeing its long-term potential. The best thing is that implementing such a system does not require a complete overhaul of the engine - an additional water tank and an intelligent dosing system will probably be enough. Thus, diesel could get an unexpected “second chance” and prove that with the right recipe, even water can be turned into fuel for a cleaner future.