A prominent YouTuber and avid debunker, known as [Thunderf00t], explored the idea of utilizing sodium to combat global warming. The notion is that sodium can serve as a fuel when burned with air, generating a cloud of sodium hydroxide that allegedly can induce a cooling effect if a sufficient amount disperses in the upper atmosphere. The proposal involves either directly using sodium as a fuel source or incorporating it as an additive to boost the aerosol content of vehicle emissions and potentially lessen their impact.
One minor challenge with employing sodium as a fuel is its solid state at room temperature, necessitating delivery in the form of pellets or liquid. Although a slight obstacle, given its melting point slightly below 100 degrees Celsius well within the operative range of an internal combustion engine, the scenario of metal solidifying in a fuel system could be envisioned. Fortunately, similar to solder eutectic blends, a sodium-potassium alloy can remain in liquid form at manageable temperatures and exhibits only a modest inclination to ignite spontaneously, which is advantageous.
Initial trials utilizing ultrasonic evaporators encountered some setbacks due to the alloy’s electrical conductivity and tendency to incinerate everything. Subsequent endeavors involved employing a conventional automotive fuel injector from the petrol variant of the Ford Fiesta. Using a proper container, a three-way valve for fuel introduction, and an inert argon supply (preventing spontaneous ignition in the presence of air), delivering the liquid metal fuel into the fuel injector seems relatively straightforward.
[Thunderf00t] initially experimented with ethanol, progressing to pentane before eventually trying the spirited sodium-potassium mixture, post rectifying glitches in the high-speed video setup. [Thunderf00t] emphasizes the criticality of judicious material selection when handling this potential liquid metal fuel, as it purportedly ignites violently upon contact with incompatible materials. Indeed, this substance even reacts with PTFE, a generally robust material. Undoubtedly, we wouldn’t wish to witness this substance being dispensed at a roadside fuel station, yet contemplating its concept is undeniably intriguing.
The mention of Sodium-Potassium alloy is relatively rare on these platforms, but here’s a snippet to showcase its properties, just for the sake of curiosity.
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