The use of BtL or PtL fuels as heating oil substitutes requires a review of the operational safety of existing plant technology in the provision of domestic heating. In the present study, commercially available heating systems are operated with blends of HEL with hydrogenated vegetable oils and with synthetic fuels. Their usability was investigated with a focus on exhaust gas emissions, influence on safety engineering and the occurrence of deposits and damage in fuel-bearing components. Trouble-free operation could be demonstrated with two selected blends over 6000 hrs. Differences in density, calorific value and thus air requirement of the blend components require adjustments to the burner settings as the blending rate increases.
Twenty-eight fuel blends were stored under aging conditions. The periodic determination of aging characteristic parameters shows sufficient long-term storage stability.
The research results obtained include statements on the long-term operational safety of the use of alternative liquid energy sources. Instructions for action could be developed, with the help of which existing plant technology can be upgraded for the use of alternative liquid energy sources.