Energy
Alternative Fuels Glossary
The following glossary of terms is provided by the US Department of Energy and is a comprehensive list of terms
used in the alternative fuels and advanced vehicles industries:
· A ·
Additives
Chemicals added to fuel in very small quantities to improve and maintain fuel
quality. Detergents and corrosion inhibitors are examples of gasoline additives.
Advanced Technology Vehicle (ATV)
A vehicle that combines new engine/power/drivetrain systems to significantly
improve fuel economy. This includes hybrid power systems and fuel cells, as well
as some specialized electric vehicles.
Aftermarket
Broad term that applies to any change after the original purchase, such as
adding equipment. When applied to AFVs, it refers to conversion devices or kits
for conventional fuel vehicles.
Air Quality Management District (AQMD)
A term used principally in California to describe administrative districts
organized to control air pollution. Nationwide, AQMDs are parallel to the areas
designated for classification against the National Ambient Air Quality
Standards (NAAQS). Generally, AQMDs and their national parallel encompass
multiple jurisdictions and closely follow the definition of Consolidated
Metropolitan Statistical Areas and Metropolitan Statistical Areas.
Air Toxics
Toxic air pollutants defined under Title II of the CAA, including benzene,
formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, 1-3 butadiene, and polycyclic organic matter (POM).
Benzene is a constituent of motor vehicle exhaust, evaporative, and fueling
emissions. The other compounds are exhaust pollutants.
Alcohols
Organic compounds that are distinguished from hydrocarbons by the inclusion of a
hydroxyl group. The two simplest alcohols are methanol and ethanol.
Aldehydes
A class of organic compounds derived by removing the hydrogen atoms from an
alcohol. Aldehydes can be produced from the oxidation of an alcohol.
Alternative Fuel
Methanol, denatured ethanol, and other alcohols; mixtures containing 85% or more
by volume of methanol, denatured ethanol, and other alcohols with gasoline or
other fuels; natural gas; liquefied petroleum gas; hydrogen; coal-derived liquid
fuels; non-alcohol fuels (such as biodiesel) derived from biological material;
and electricity. 'P-Series' fuels were added to this list since the original
definition in EPAct.
Alternative Fuel Provider
A fuel provider (or any affiliate or business unit under its control) is an
alternative fuel provider if its principal business is producing, storing,
refining, processing, transporting, distributing, importing, or selling (at
wholesale or retail) any alternative fuel (other than electricity); or
generating, transmitting, importing, or selling (at wholesale and retail)
electricity; or if that fuel provider produces, imports, or produces and imports
(in combination), an average of 50,000 barrels per day of petroleum and 30% (a
substantial portion) or more of its gross annual revenues are derived from
producing alternative fuels.
Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV)
As defined by the Energy Policy Act, any dedicated, flexible-fuel, or dual-fuel
vehicle designed to operate on at least one alternative fuel.
Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC)
A program sponsored by DOE and managed by the National Renewable Energy
Laboratory to collect data and information on all types of Alternative Fuels and
AFVs across the country.
Alternative Fuels Utilization Program (AFUP)
A program managed by DOE with the goals of improving national energy security by
displacing imported oil, improving air quality by development and widespread use
of alternative fuels for transportation, and increasing the production of AFVs.
Alternative Motor Fuels Act of 1988 (AMFA)
Public Law 100-494. Encourages the development, production and demonstration of
alternative motor fuels and AFVs.
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
A nonprofit organization that provides a management system to develop published
technical information. ASTM standards, test methods, specifications, and
procedures are recognized as definitive guidelines for motor fuel quality as
well as a broad range of other products and procedures.
Anhydrous
Describes a compound that does not contain any water. Ethanol produced for fuel
use is often referred to as anhydrous ethanol, as it has had almost all water
removed.
Aromatics
Hydrocarbons based on the ringed six-carbon benzene series or related organic
groups. Benzene, toluene and xylene are the principal aromatics, commonly
referred to as the BTX group. They represent one of the heaviest fractions in
gasoline.
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· B ·
B100
100% (neat) biodiesel.
B20
A blend of biodiesel fuel with petroleum-based diesel where 20% of the volume is
biodiesel.
BTX
Industry term referring to the group of aromatic hydrocarbons—benzene,
toluene and xylene (see aromatics).
Balance of Payments
The dollar amount difference between a country's exports and imports. In the
United States, large oil imports are one of the main causes of the negative
balance of payments with the rest of the world.
Benzene
A six-carbon aromatic; common gasoline component identified as being toxic.
Benzene is a known carcinogen.
Bi-Fuel Vehicle
A vehicle with two separate fuel systems designed to run on either an
alternative fuel, or gasoline or diesel, using only one fuel at a time. Bi-fuel
vehicles are referred to as "dual-fuel" vehicles in the Clean Air Act Amendments
and Energy Policy Act.
Biochemical Conversion
The use of enzymes and catalysts to change biological substances chemically to
produce energy products. For example, the digestion of organic wastes or sewage
by microorganisms to produce methane is a biochemical process.
Biodiesel
A biodegradable transportation fuel for use in diesel engines that is produced
through transesterification of organically derived oils or fats. Biodiesel is
used as a component of diesel fuel. In the future it may be used as a
replacement for diesel.
Biomass
Renewable organic matter such as agricultural crops; crop waste residues; wood,
animal, and municipal waste, aquatic plants; fungal growth; etc., used for the
production of energy.
British Thermal Unit (Btu)
A standard unit for measuring heat energy. One Btu represents the amount of
heat required to raise one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit (at sea level).
Butane
A gas, easily liquefied, recovered from natural gas. Used as a low-volatility
component of motor gasoline, processed further for a high-octane gasoline
component, used in LPG for domestic and industrial applications and used as a
raw material for petrochemical synthesis.
Butyl Alcohol
Alcohol derived from butane that is used in organic synthesis and as a solvent.
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· C ·
California Air Resources Board (CARB)
The state agency that regulates the air quality in California. CARB standards
are often stricter than federal standards.
California Low-Emission Vehicle Program
State requirement for automakers to produce vehicles with fewer emissions than
current U.S. Department of Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) standards.
The four categories of California Low-Emission Vehicle Program standards from
least to most stringent are transitional low emission vehicles (TLEVs), low
emission vehicles (LEVs), ultra low emission vehicles (ULEVs), and zero emission
vehicles (ZEVs).
California Pilot Program
Federal program, administered by EPA under the Clean Air Act, which sets lower
emission standards (relative to cars in the general U.S. market) for a set
number of new passenger cars and light trucks sold in California. Beginning in
1996, the program will require the sale of 150,000 clean vehicles in the state.
In 1999 that number increased to 300,000 annually. California must mandate
availability of any fuel necessary to operate clean fuel vehicles.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
A product of combustion that has become an environmental concern in recent years.
CO2 does not directly impair human health, but is a greenhouse gas
that traps the Earth's heat and contributes to the potential for global warming.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
A colorless, odorless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels with a
limited oxygen supply, as in automobile engines. According to the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, CO contributes to the formation of smog ground-level
ozone, which can trigger serious respiratory problems.
Carbon Sequestration
The absorption and storage of CO2 from the atmosphere by the roots
and leaves of plants; the carbon builds up as organic matter in the soil.
Carcinogens
Chemicals and other substances known to cause cancer.
Catalyst
A substance whose presence changes the rate of chemical reaction without itself
undergoing permanent change in its composition. Catalysts may be accelerators
or retarders. Most inorganic catalysts are powdered metals and metal oxides,
chiefly used in the petroleum, vehicle, and heavy chemical industries.
Certification of Higher Learning in Alternative Motorfuels Program (CHAMP)
A national program established by DOE to implement Section 411 of the Energy
Policy Act of 1992.
Cetane
Ignition performance rating of diesel fuel. Diesel equivalent to gasoline
octane.
Clean Air Act (CAA)
Signed into law in 1963, then amended in 1970, and again in 1990 (see Clean Air
Act Amendments of 1990). Includes emissions standard for mobile and stationary
sources. Enforced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 (CAAA)
Amendments to the Clean Air Act of 1970. The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990
created two new gasoline standards designed to reduce harmful fuel emissions for
vehicles in highly polluted cities. The Act required gasoline to contain cleaner
burning additives called fuel oxygenates such as ethanol. This Act recognized
that changes in motor fuels and fuel composition would play a vital role in
reducing pollution from motor vehicle exhaust.
Clean Cities Program
A voluntary program established and administered by DOE to increase AFV market
penetration, particularly in more polluted urban areas. Clean Cities chapters
are recognized by DOE as having successfully established a sulf-sustaining
environment for AFVs. Specific chapters may include federal, state, and local
government agencies, vehicle manufacturers and suppliers, fleet managers,
utilities, local distribution companies, and other stakeholders. The first
international entities joined the program in 1995.
Clean Diesel
An evolving definition of diesel fuel with lower emission specifications, which
strictly limit sulfur content to 0.05 weight %; in California, aromatics content
is further limited to 10 volume % (for large refiners).
Clean Fuel
Any fuel or power source that is used to certify a vehicle to the LEV, ILEV,
ULEV, SULEV, or ZEV standard.
Clean Fuel Fleet Program
Implemented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a provision of the
Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 to require cities with significant air quality
problems to incorporate vehicles that will meet clean fuel emissions standards.
Clean Fuel Vehicle (CFV)
Any vehicle certified by EPA as meeting certain federal emissions standards. The
three categories of federal CFV standards from least to most stringent are low
emission vehicles (LEVs), ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs), and zero emission
vehicles (ZEVs). The inherently low emission vehicle (ILEV) standard is
voluntary and does not need to be adopted by states as part of the Clean-Fuel
Fleet Program. CFVs are eligible for two federal programs, the California Pilot
Program and the Clean-Fuel Fleet Program. CFV exhaust emissions standards for
light-duty vehicles and light-duty trucks are numerically similar to those of
CARB's California Low-Emission Vehicle Program.
Closed-Loop Carburetion
System in which the fuel/air ratio in the engine is carefully controlled to
optimize emissions performance. A closed-loop system uses a fuel metering
correction signal to optimize fuel metering.
Co-solvents
Heavier molecular weight alcohols used with methanol to improve water tolerance
and reduce other negative characteristics of gasoline/alcohol blends. Tertiary
butyl alcohol (TBA) was used commercially as a co-solvent for methanol/gasoline
blends during the 1980s.
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)
Natural gas that has been compressed under high pressures, typically 2000 to
3600 psi, held in a container. The gas expands when used as a fuel.
Compression Ignition
The form of ignition that initiates combustion in a diesel engine. The rapid
compression of air within the cylinders generates the heat required to ignite
the fuel as it is injected.
Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program
A federal grant program established by the Intermodal Surface Transportation Act
of 1991 that allocates funds to states to help them simultaneously expand or
initiate transportation services while improving air quality. CMAQ funds may be
used to support alternative fuel and alternative fuel vehicle programs.
Converted or Conversion Vehicle
A vehicle originally designed to operate on gasoline or diesel that has been
modified or altered to run on an alternative fuel.
Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA)
Federal and private joint research and development program that is used to
further technology commercialization.
Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE)
Law passed in 1975 that set federal fuel economy standards (P.L. 94-163). The
CAFE values are an average of city and highway fuel economy test results
weighted by a manufacturer for either its car or truck fleet. CAFE is also a
program created to determine whether vehicle manufacturers are complying with
the gas mileage, or fuel economy, standards set by the federal government. The
CAFE values are obtained by combining the city and highway fuel economy test
results and computing an average that is weighted by vehicle sales.
Corrosion Inhibitors
Additives used to inhibit corrosion (e.g., rust) in the fuel system.
Cryogenic Storage
Extreme low-temperature storage.
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· D ·
Dedicated Natural Gas Vehicle
A vehicle that operates only on natural gas. Such a vehicle is incapable of
running on any other fuel.
Dedicated Vehicle
A vehicle that operates solely on one fuel. Generally, dedicated vehicles have
superior emissions and performance results because their design has been
optimized for operation on a single fuel.
Denatured Alcohol
Ethanol that contains a small amount of a toxic substance, such as methanol or
gasoline, which cannot be removed easily by chemical or physical means.
Alcohols intended for industrial use must be denatured to avoid federal
alcoholic beverage tax.
Department of Energy
See U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
Detergent
Additives used to inhibit deposit formation in the fuel and intake systems in
automobiles.
Dimethyl Ether (DME)
An oxygenated hydrocarbon, which is the simplest compound in the class of ethers.
It is generally produced from natural gas but almost any carbon-based feedstock
can be used, including crude oil, coal, crop residues, oil sands, wood, or straw.
Distillation Curve
The percentages of gasoline that evaporate at various temperatures. The
distillation curve is an important indicator for fuel standards such as
volatility (vaporization).
Domestic Fuel
As defined by the Energy Policy Act, Section 301, domestic fuel is derived from
resources within the United States, its possessions and commonwealths, and
Canada and Mexico (the two nations in a free-trade agreement with the United
States).
Dual-Fuel Vehicle
Vehicle designed to operate on a combination of an alternative fuel and a
conventional fuel. This includes (a) vehicles that use a mixture of gasoline
or diesel and an alternative fuel in one fuel tank, commonly called flexible-fuel
vehicles; and (b) vehicles capable of operating either on an alternative fuel,
a conventional fuel, or both, simultaneously using two fuel systems. They
are commonly called bi-fuel vehicles.
Dual-Fuel Vehicle (EPAct definition)
Vehicle designed to operate on a combination of an alternative fuel and a
conventional fuel. This includes vehicles using a mixture of gasoline or diesel
and an alternative fuel in one fuel tank, commonly called flexible-fueled
vehicles; and vehicles capable of operating either on an alternative fuel (usually
compressed natural gas or propane), a conventional fuel, or both, simultaneously
using two fuel systems. These are commonly called bi-fuel vehicles.
Dynamometer
An instrument for measuring mechanical force, or an apparatus for measuring
mechanical power (as of an engine).
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· E ·
E10 (Gasohol)
Ethanol mixture that contains 10% ethanol, 90% unleaded gasoline.
E85
Ethanol/gasoline mixture that contains 85% denatured ethanol and 15% gasoline,
by volume.
E93
Ethanol mixture that contains 93% ethanol, 5% methanol and 2% kerosene, by
volume.
E95
Ethanol/gasoline mixture that contains 95% denatured ethanol and 5% gasoline,
by volume.
Electric Vehicle
A vehicle powered by electricity, generally provided by batteries. EVs qualify
in the zero emission vehicle (ZEV) category for emissions.
Electricity
Electric current used as a power source. Electricity can be generated from a
variety of feedstocks, including oil, coal, nuclear, hydro, natural gas, wind,
and solar. In electric vehicles, onboard rechargeable batteries power electric
motors.
Emission Standards
Limits or ranges established for pollution levels emitted by vehicles as well as
stationary sources. The first standards were established under the 1963 Clean
Air Act. Emission limits are imposed on four classes of vehicles: automobiles,
light-duty trucks, heavy-duty gasoline trucks, and heavy-duty diesel trucks.
Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct)
Passed by Congress to enhance U.S. energy security by reducing our dependence on
imported oil. It mandates the use of alternative fuel vehicles, beginning with
federal, then state, then fuel provider fleets.
Energy/Fuel Diversity
A policy that encourages the development of energy technologies to diversify
energy supply sources, thus reducing reliance on conventional (petroleum) fuels;
Energy/fuel diversity applies to all energy sectors.
Energy/Fuel Security
A policy that considers the risk of dependence on fuel sources located in remote
and unstable regions of the world. It also considers the benefits of domestic
and diverse fuel sources.
Environmental Protection Agency
See U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Ester
An organic compound formed by reacting an acid with an alcohol, always resulting
in the elimination of water.
Ethane (C2H6)
A colorless hydrocarbon gas of slight odor having a gross heating value of 1,773
Btu per cubic foot. It is a normal constituent of natural gas.
Ethanol (also known as Ethyl Alcohol, Grain Alcohol, CH 3 CH 2
OH)
Can be produced chemically from ethylene or biologically from the fermentation
of various sugars from carbohydrates found in agricultural crops and cellulosic
residues from crops or wood. Used in the United States as a gasoline octane
enhancer and oxygenate, it increases octane 2.5 to 3.0 numbers at 10%
concentration. Ethanol also can be used in higher concentration in alternative
fuel vehicles optimized for its use.
Ether
A class of organic compounds containing an oxygen atom linked to two organic
groups.
Etherification
Oxygenation of an olefin by methanol or ethanol. For example, MTBE is formed
from the chemical reaction of isobutylene and methanol.
Ethyl Alcohol
See Ethanol.
Ethyl Ester
A fatty ester formed when organically derived oils are combined with ethanol in
the presence of a catalyst. After water washing, vacuum drying, and filtration,
the resulting ethyl ester has characteristics similar to petroleum-based diesel
motor fuels.
Ethyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (ETBE)
A fuel oxygenate used as a gasoline additive to increase octane and reduce
engine knock.
Evaporative Emissions
Hydrocarbon vapors that escape from a fuel storage tank or a vehicle fuel tank
or vehicle fuel system.
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· F ·
Feedstock
Any material converted to another form of fuel or energy product. For example,
cornstarch can be used as a feedstock for ethanol production.
Fermentation
The enzymatic transformation by microorganisms of organic compounds such as
sugar. It is usually accompanied by the evolution of gas as the fermentation of
glucose into ethanol and CO2.
Fischer-Tropsch
A method discovered in 1923 by the German coal researchers Franz Fischer and
Hans Tropsch, for the synthesis of hydrocarbons and other aliphatic compounds. A
mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide is reacted in the presence of an iron or
cobalt catalyst. Much heat is evolved and products such as methane, synthetic
gasoline and waxes, and alcohols are made. Water or carbon dioxide is its by-product.
Flexible-Fuel Vehicle (FFV)
A Vehicle with a common fuel tank designed to run on varying blends of unleaded
gasoline with either ethanol or methanol.
Fossil Fuel
A fuel such as coal, oil, and natural gas. Fossil fuels are the remains of
ancient plants and animals.
Fuel Cell
An electrochemical engine with no moving parts that converts the chemical energy
of a fuel, such as hydrogen, and an oxidant, such as oxygen, directly to
electricity. The principal components of a fuel cell are catalytically
activated electrodes for the fuel (anode) and the oxidant (cathode) and an
electrolyte to conduct ions between the two electrodes.
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· G ·
Gas to Liquid Technology
Gas-to-liquid conversion technologies use chemical or physical means to convert
natural gas to a liquid form suitable for ready transport or direct use.
Gasohol
In the United States, gasohol (E10) refers to gasoline that contains 10% ethanol
by volume. This term was used in the late 1970s and early 1980s but has been
replaced in some areas of the country with E10, super unleaded plus ethanol, or
unleaded plus.
Gasoline Gallon Equivalent (gge)
A unit for measuring alternative fuels so that they can be compared with
gasoline on an energy equivalent basis. This is required because the different
fuels have different energy densities.
Global Warming
The theoretical escalation of global temperatures caused by the increase of
greenhouse gas emissions in the lower atmosphere.
Greenhouse Effect
A warming of the Earth and its atmosphere as a result of the thermal trapping of
incoming solar radiation by CO2, water vapor, methane, nitrogen oxide,
chlorofluorocarbons, and other gases, both natural and man-made.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
Maximum weight of a vehicle, including payload.
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· H ·
Heavy-Duty Vehicle
Generally, a vehicle that has a GVWR of more than 26,000 lb. Definitions vary by
organization.
High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes
Lanes on the highway that are restricted to vehicles carrying more than one
passenger.
Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)
A vehicle powered by two or more energy sources, one of which is electricity.
HEVs may combine the engine and fuel of a conventional vehicle with the
batteries and electric motor of an electric vehicle in a single drivetrain.
Hydrogen
A colorless, highly flammable gaseous fuel.
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· I ·
Infrastructure
In transportation, this term generally refers to the charging and fueling
network necessary to successful development, production, commercialization, and
operation of alternative fuel vehicles. It includes fuel supply, public and
private charging and fueling facilities, standard specifications for fueling
outlets, customer service, education and training, and building code regulations.
Inherently Low Emission Vehicle (ILEV)
This is a federal standard only. Such a vehicle meets EPA CFV ILEV exhaust
emission standards and produces very few or no evaporative emissions (5 grams or
less per test without using auxiliary emission control devices). ILEVS are
dedicated AFVs in most cases. Dual-fuel vehicles will be considered ILEVs only
if both fuels meet the standard. ILEV credits can be banked in the Consolidated
Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA)
An omnibus act that further integrates the national intermodal surface
transportation system and authorizes funds for highway construction, highway
safety programs, and mass transit programs. ISTEA seeks a national intermodal
surface transportation system that is economical, energy efficient, and
environmentally sound. Section 1008 of the ISTEA establishes the Congestion
Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, which can provide funds to
support alternative fuel and alternative fuel vehicle programs.
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· L ·
LNG to CNG Station
A station, supplied with LNG, that pumps and vaporizes the liquid supply to
vehicles as CNG fuel, generally at the correct pressure and temperature (i.e.,
the temperature effect of compression is factored into the design).
LNG vehicle
A vehicle that uses LNG as its fuel.
Lead
see Tetraethyl Lead.
Light-Duty Vehicle
Passenger cars and trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating of 8,500 or less.
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)
Compressed natural gas that is cryogenically stored in its liquid state.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)
A mixture of hydrocarbons found in natural gas and produced from crude oil, used
principally as a feedstock for the chemical industry, home heating fuel, and
motor vehicle fuel. Also known by the principal constituent propane.
Liter (L)
A metric measurement used to calculate the volume displacement of an engine.
One liter is equal to 1,000 cubic centimeters or 61 cubic inches.
Low-Emission Vehicle (LEV)
A vehicle that meets EPA's CFV or LEV standards or CARB's California LEV
standards.
Lubricity
Capacity to reduce friction.
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· M ·
M100
100% (neat) methanol.
M85
85% methanol and 15% unleaded gasoline by volume, used as a motor fuel in FFVs.
Medium-Duty Vehicle
Typically, a vehicle with a GVWR of 8,500 to 14,000 lb.
Methane (CH4)
The simplest of the hydrocarbons and the principal constituent of natural gas.
Pure methane has a heating value of 1,012 Btu per standard cubic foot.
Methanol (also known as Methyl Alcohol, Wood Alcohol, CH3 OH)
A liquid fuel formed by catalytically combining CO with hydrogen in a 1 to 2
ratio under high temperature and pressure. Commercially, it is typically
manufactured by steam reforming natural gas. Also formed in the destructive
distillation of wood.
Methyl Alcohol
See Methanol.
Methyl Ester
A fatty ester formed when organically derived oils are combined with methanol in
the presence of a catalyst. Methyl Ester has characteristics similar to
petroleum-based diesel motor fuels.
Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE)
A fuel oxygenate used as an additive to gasoline to increase octane and reduce
engine knock. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, MTBE has
been detected in ground water across the country, somtimes contaminating
drinking water. Recent work by EPA and other researchers is expected to help
determine the potential for health effects from MTBE in drinking water.
Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)/ Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical
Area (CMSA)
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, an area qualifies for recognition as an MSA
if it includes a city of at least 50,000 in population or an urbanized area of
at least 50,000 with a total metropolitan area population of at least 100,000.Consolidated
metropolitan statistical areas are defined similarly but have populations of 1
million or more and include within them separate metropolitan statistical areas.
For purposes of EPAct, covered MSA and CMSA areas include those that had a 1980
U.S. Census population figure of more than 250,000.
Mobile Source Emissions
Emissions resulting from the operations of any type of motor vehicle.
Motor Octane
The octane as tested in a single-cylinder octane test engine at more severe
operating conditions. Motor octane number (MON) affects high-speed and part-throttle
knock and performance under load, passing, climbing, and other operating
conditions. Motor octane is represented by the designation M in the (R+M)/2
equation and is the lower of the two numbers.
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· N ·
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)
Ambient standards for air pollutants specifically regulated under the CAA.
These pollutants include ozone, CO, NO2, lead, PM, and SOx.
National Automotive Technical Education Foundation
A consortium of automotive education experts that has established a steering
committee to administer the CHAMP certification process at educational
institutions.
National Low-Emission Vehicle (NLEV) Program
This program creates voluntary requirements that automakers can adopt in lieu of
compliance with other vehicle emission control measures. (Applies only to light-duty
vehicles lighter than 6,000 lb GVWR.) Vehicles are certified with California
test procedures. See EPA's Web site at: http://www.epa.gov/oms/lev-nlev.htm.
Natural Gas
A mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons, primarily methane, occurring naturally in the
Earth and used principally as a fuel.
Natural Gas Distribution System
This term generally applies to mains, services, and equipment that carry or
control the supply of natural gas from a point of local supply, up to and
including the sales meter.
Natural Gas Transmission System
Pipelines installed for the purpose of transmitting natural gas from a source or
sources of supply to one or more distribution centers.
Natural Gas Vehicle
Vehicles that are powered by compressed or liquefied natural gas.
Near Neat Fuel
Fuel that is virtually free from admixture or dilution.
Neat Alcohol Fuel
Straight or 100% alcohol (not blended with gasoline), usually in the form of
either ethanol or methanol.
Neat Fuel
Fuel that is free from admixture or dilution with other fuels.
Non-Attainment Area
A region, determined by population density in accordance with the U.S.
Census Bureau, which exceeds minimum acceptable NAAQS for one or more "criteria
pollutants" (see Clean Air Act Amendments). Such areas are required to
seek modifications to their State Implementation Plans, setting forth a
reasonable timetable using EPA-approved means to achieve attainment of NAAQS
for these criteria pollutants by a certain date. Under the CAA, if a
nonattainment area fails to attain NAAQS, EPA may superimpose a Federal
Implementation Plan with stricter requirements or impose fines,
constructions bans, cutoffs in federal grant revenues, and so forth, until
the area achieves the applicable NAAQS.
Non-Methane Organic Gases (NMOG)
The sum of non-oxygenated and oxygenated hydrocarbons (exclusive of methane)
contained in a gas sample as measured in accordance with California's non-methane
organic gas test procedure.
Non-Road Vehicle (off-road vehicle)
A vehicle that does not travel streets, roads, or highways. Such vehicles
include construction vehicles, locomotives, forklifts, tractors, golf carts, and
others.
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· O ·
OEM
Original equipment manufacturer.
Octane Enhancer
Any substance such as MTBE, ETBE, toluene, or xylene that is added to gasoline
to increase octane and reduce engine knock.
Octane Rating (Octane Number)
A measure of a fuel's resistance to self-ignition, hence a measure as well of
the antiknock properties of the fuel.
Off-Road
Any non-stationary device, powered by an internal combustion engine or motor,
used primarily off the highways to propel, move, or draw persons or property,
and used in any of the following applications: marine vessels, construction/farm
equipment, locomotives, utility and lawn and garden equipment, off-road
motorcycles, and off-highway vehicles.
Office of Transportation and Air Quality
Division of EPA that protects public health and the environment by controlling
air pollution from motor vehicles, engines, and the fuels used to operate them,
and by encouraging travel choices that minimize emissions.
Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR)
System required on vehicles beginning in 1998 to control refueling emissions.
Open-Loop Fuel Control
System in which the air/fuel mixture is preset by design with no feedback
correction signal to optimize fuel metering.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
The original manufacturer of a vehicle or engine.
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx)
Regulated air pollutants, primarily NO and NO2 but including other
substances in minute concentrations. Under the high pressure and temperature
conditions in an engine, nitrogen and oxygen atoms in the air react to form
various NOx. Like hydrocarbons, NOx are precursors to the
formation of smog. They also contribute to the formation of acid rain.
Oxygenate
A term used in the petroleum industry to denote fuel additives containing
hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen in their molecular structure. Includes ethers such
as MTBE and ETBE and alcohols such as ethanol and methanol.
Oxygenated Fuels
Fuels blended with an additive, usually methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) or
ethanol to increase oxygen content, allowing more thorough combustion for
reduced carbon monoxide emissions.
Oxygenated Gasoline
Gasoline containing an oxygenate such as ethanol or MTBE. The increased oxygen
content promotes more complete combustion, thereby reducing tailpipe emissions
of CO.
Ozone
Tropospheric ozone (smog) is formed when volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
oxygen, and NOx react in the presence of sunlight (not to be confused
with stratospheric ozone, which is found in the upper atmosphere and protects
the earth from the sun's ultraviolet rays). Though beneficial in the upper
atmosphere, ground-level ozone is a respiratory irritant and considered a
pollutant.
Ozone Transport Region (OTR)
The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 enable EPA to establish Ozone Transport
Regions to reduce the likelihood ozone and its precursors will be carried from
one area to another, lowering air quality in the downwind location. The
first such region consists of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland,
Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode
Island, Vermont, and the District of Columbia.
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· P ·
P-Series Fuels
Fuels designed by the Pure Fuel Corporation to run in E85/gasoline flexible fuel
vehicles. Added by DOE after EPAct as an alternative fuel.
Paraffins
Group of saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons, including methane, ethane, propane,
and butane and noted by the suffix "-ane".
Particulate Matter (PM)
A generic term for a broad class of chemically and physically diverse substances
that exist as discrete particles (liquid droplets or solids) over a wide range
of sizes. A NAAQS pollutant.
Particulate Trap
Diesel vehicle emission control device that traps and incinerates diesel
particulate emissions after they are exhausted from the engine but before they
are expelled into the atmosphere.
Petroleum Fuel
Gasoline or diesel fuel.
Phase Separation
The phenomenon of a separation of a liquid or vapor into two or more physically
distinct and mechanically separable portions or layers.
Portable Fueling System
A system designed to deliver natural gas to fueling stations. Such systems are
usually configured as tube trailers and are mobile. Fuel delivery usually occurs
via over-the-road vehicles.
Pounds Per Square Inch (psi)
A unit of measure for pressure.
Private Fleet
A fleet of vehicles owned by a non government entity.
Propane (C3H8)
A gas whose molecules are composed of three carbon and eight hydrogen atoms.
Propane is present in most natural gas in the United States, and is refined from
crude petroleum. Propane contains about 2,500 Btu per standard cubic foot.
Propane is the principal constituent in liquified petroleum gas (LPG).
Public Fueling Station
Refers to fueling station that is accessible to the general public.
Pump Octane
The octane as posted on retail gasoline dispensers as (R+M)/2; same as Antiknock
Index.
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· R ·
Reactivity Adjustment Factor (RAF)
An NMOG adjustment used in the certification of vehicles to the California
emission standards to reflect reduced ozone forming potential of a fuel,
especially alternative fuels.
Reformulated Gasoline (RFG)
Gasolines that have had their compositions or characteristics altered to reduce
vehicular emissions of pollutants, particularly pursuant to EPA regulations
under the CAA.
Refueling Emissions
VOC vapors that escape from the vehicle fuel tank during refueling. Storage II
pump controls and onboard refueling vapor recovery systems (ORVR) are intended
to control these emissions.
Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP)
A standard measurement of a liquid's vapor pressure in psi at 100°F. It is
an indication of the propensity of the liquid to evaporate.
Research Octane Number (RON)
The octane as tested in a single-cylinder octane test engine operated under less
severe operating conditions. RON affects low-to medium-speed knock and engine
run-on. Research Octane is presented by the designation R in the (R+M)/2
equation and is the higher of the two numbers.
Retrofit
To change a vehicle or engine after its original purchase, usually by adding
equipment such as conversion systems.
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· S ·
Smog
A visible haze caused primarily by particulate matter and ozone. Ozone is
formed by the reaction of hydrocarbons and NOx in the atmosphere.
Spark Ignition Engine
Internal combustion engine in which the charge is ignited electrically (e.g.,
with a spark plug).
Stakeholders
Citizens, environmentalists, businesses, and government representatives that are
served by the air quality management system.
State Energy Program
Program offered by the U.S. Department of Energy that allows states to compete
for funding to implement activities related to programmatic areas, such as
federal energy management, building codes and standards, alternative fuels,
industrial efficiency, building efficiency, and renewable energy technologies.
State Implementation Plan (SIP)
Plan that a state must submit to EPA under the CAA to demonstrate compliance to
NAAQS.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
An EPA criteria pollutant
Super Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle (SULEV)
A vehicle that produces fewer exhaust emissions than do ultra-low-emission
vehicles. ULEV credits can also be banked in the Consolidated Metropolitan
Statistical Area.
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· T ·
Tailpipe Emissions
EPA-regulated vehicle exhaust emissions released through the vehicle tailpipe.
Tailpipe emissions do not include evaporative and refueling emissions, which are
also regulated by EPA. EPA publishes allowable emission levels and vehicle
certification standards in the Code of Federal Regulations.
Tax Incentives
In general, a means of employing the tax code to stimulate investment in or
development of a socially desirable economic objective without direct
expenditure from the budget of a given unit of government. Such incentives can
take the form of tax exemptions or credits.
Tertiary Amyl Ethyl Ether (TAEE)
An ether based on reactive C5 olefins and ethanol.
Tertiary Amyl Methyl Ether (TAME)
An ether based on reactive C5 olefins and methanol.
Tetraethyl Lead or Lead
An octane enhancer. One gram of lead increases the octane of one gallon of
gasoline about 6 numbers. The EPA has phased down the use of lead in gasoline
as it has been determined to be a health hazard. Lead has been prohibited in
highway vehicle gasoline since January 1, 1996.
Therm
A unit of heating value equivalent to 100,000 British Thermal Units (Btu).
Toluene
Basic aromatic compound derived from petroleum and used to increase octane. The
most common hydrocarbon purchased for use in increasing octane.
Toxic Emission
Any pollutant emitted from a source that can negatively affect human health or
the environment.
Toxic Substance
A generic term referring to a harmful substance or group of substances.
Typically, these substances are especially harmful to health, such as those
considered under EPA's hazardous substance program. Technically, any compound
that has the potential to produce adverse health effects is considered a toxic
substance.
Transesterification
A process in which organically derived oils or fats are combined with alcohol (ethanol
or methanol) in the presence of a catalyst to form esters (ethyl or methyl ester).
Transitional Low-Emission Vehicle (TLEV)
Describes a vehicle that meets either EPA's CFV TLEV standards or CARB's
California Low-Emission Vehicle Program TLEV standards. TLEVs produce fewer
emissions than federal Tier 1 vehicles. TLEVs are eligible for the federal
California Pilot Program but not eligible for the Clean-Fuel Fleet Program.
Transportation Control Measures (TCM)
Restrictions imposed by state or local governments to limit use or access by
vehicles during certain times or subject to specific operating requirements, e.g.,
high-occupancy vehicle lanes.
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· U ·
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
A department of the federal government, established by the Carter Administration
in 1977, to consolidate energy-oriented programs and agencies. The DOE mission
includes the coordination and management of energy conservation, supply,
information dissemination, regulation, research, development and demonstration.
U.S. Department of Transportation
A government agency whose mission is to ensure a fast, safe, efficient,
accessible, and convenient transportation system that meets the national
interests and enhances our quality of life.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
A government agency, established in 1970, responsible for protecting the
environment and public health. EPA seeks to reduce air, water, and land
pollution and pollution from solid waste, radiation, pesticides, and toxic
substances. EPA also controls emissions from motor vehicles, fuels, and fuel
additives.
Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle (ULEV)
Describes a vehicle that meets either EPA's CFV ULEV standards or CARB's
California Low-Emission Vehicle Program ULEV standards. ULEVs produce fewer
emissions than LEVs. Fleets that purchase CFV ULEVs may earn credits under the
Clean-Fuel Fleet Vehicle Program. Manufacturers that sell CFV ULEVs may earn
credits under the federal California Pilot Program.
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· V ·
Vapor Pressure or Volatility
The tendency of a liquid to pass into the vapor state at a given temperature.
With automotive fuels, volatility is determined by measuring RVP.
Variable Fuel Vehicle (VFV)
A vehicle that has the capacity of burning any combination of gasoline and an
alternative fuel. Also known as a flexible-fuel vehicle.
Vehicle Conversion
Retrofitting a vehicle engine to run on an alternative fuel.
Vehicle Miles Traveled
The miles traveled by motor vehicles over a specified length of time (e.g. daily,
monthly, or yearly) or over a specified road or transportation corridor.
Volatile Organic Compound (VOC)
Reactive gas released during combustion or evaporation of fuel and regulated by
EPA. VOCs react with NOx in the presence of sunlight and form ozone.
Voluntary Mobile Source Emission Reduction Program
A program established by EPA to encourage voluntary emission reduction programs
that can be part of a state implementation program.
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· W ·
Wood Alcohol
See Methanol.
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· X ·
Xylene
An aromatic hydrocarbon derived from petroleum and used to increase octane.
Highly valued as a petrochemical feedstock. Xylene is highly photochemically
reactive and, as a constituent of tailpipe emissions, is a contributor to smog
formation.
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· Z ·
Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV)
A vehicle that emits no tailpipe exhaust emissions. ZEV credits can be banked
within the Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area.
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When you use overdrive gearing, your car's engine speed goes down. This saves gas and reduces engine wear.
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Major Land Usage
See the major uses of land broken into Crop, Pasture, Forest and Urban
View Report >>
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