Environment & Energy

As you apparently know NOTHING about basic chemistry, I am going to tell you to do some basic self-education and I am going to spend time with my 15 year old beloved dog at the dog park rather than with you. I do not know who/what- if anyone or anything, rather than disinformation, is motivating you to advocate on behalf of E15 and higher ethanol levels to this degree--to the point of denying that NOT all cars can use it and even worse denying that it IS corrosive without measures taken to protect vital engine parts. I admonish you against bamboozling DUers into taking your blanket claims at face value, rather than checking to be sure with THEIR CAR MANUFACTUERER AND WARRANTY. I find that unconscionable and DUers know I would never intentionally tell them to do something that might cause them personal harm, rather than check with their own best sources. DUers, please check with your auto manual, your manufacturer's web page, your car dealerships' auto repair department or any source that is going to have the accurate information for YOUR vehicle. Yes, there are increasing cars (especially American-made that state they can handle E15 or higher but do you really want to risk it if yours may not be one of them--especially if still under warranty that could be voided?


But, in response to the poster, I m going to give YOU a start to understand chemistry 101.
Corrosion: Ethanol can be corrosive to metals and degrade certain plastics and rubbers in fuel systems;
Water Absorption: Tends to attract and absorb water, leading to phase separation in fuel and potential engine problems;
Volatility: Ethanol-blended fuels can become less stable over time, especially when stored.
Compatibility: Not all engines are compatible with high-ethanol fuels, potentially leading to damage.

Understanding the Corrosive Nature of Ethanol Fuel
https://www.biodieselfoundation.org/is-ethanol-corrosive/

Ethanol blended fuel was initially embraced for its potential to reduce emissions and serve as an alternative to traditional gasoline. Now, it’s found in over 90% of gasoline sold. However, this widespread adoption has led to unexpected issues. This blog post will explore five significant challenges arising from the use of ethanol in fuel.

Ethanol: Characteristics, Challenges, and Solutions;
Is Ethanol Corrosive?;
The Engine Risks of Ethanol Blended Gasoline;
Ethanol’s Hygroscopic Nature: Mitigating Water-Related Issues;
Ethanol-Induced Corrosion: Protecting Your Assets;
The Impact of Ethanol on Fuel Degradation and Oxidation;
Energy Efficiency in Ethanol Blended Fuels;
Ethanol’s Role as a Microbial Growth Nutrient;
Biobor EB: A Solution to Ethanol-Related Issues;
Long-Term Impacts of Ethanol Fuel Usage;
Ethanol-Related Damage to Fuel Systems and Equipment;
Conclusion.
Ethanol: Characteristics, Challenges, and Solutions
Property Description
Source Primarily derived from plant sources, such as corn and sugarcane.
Oxygenate Functions as an oxygenate, enhancing combustion and contributing to reduced emissions.
Energy Content Contains approximately one-third less energy than gasoline, impacting overall fuel efficiency.
Solvent Properties Exhibits solvent properties, capable of dissolving certain materials, which can affect fuel system components.
Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol, is a sustainable fuel derived from farm-grown resources like corn and sugarcane, among other biomass. Its use in the international fuel landscape, especially as a supplement to gasoline, has surged due to its eco-friendly profile. Ethanol’s contribution to fuel mixtures is multifaceted: it acts as an octane booster, warding off engine pinging, and as an oxygenating agent, enhancing the burn efficiency of fuel, thereby curtailing toxic emissions. The blend that’s most commonly available worldwide is E10, which incorporates a 10% ethanol to 90% traditional gasoline ratio.

However, the application of ethanol in fuels varies widely, with some countries experimenting with higher concentrations like E15 (15% ethanol) or even E85 (85% ethanol) for vehicles specifically designed to operate on high-ethanol content fuels. The use of ethanol is part of a broader strategy to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and lower the carbon footprint of transportation. Ethanol’s renewable nature, derived from plant materials, positions it as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gasoline. It is also a significant component in the strategies of various governments and organizations aiming to achieve environmental targets and sustainable energy goals. Despite its benefits, the use of ethanol in fuel systems has led to discussions around its impact on engine performance, fuel efficiency, and compatibility with existing vehicle technologies, highlighting the ongoing evolution and adaptation in the field of renewable energy sources.

This unique fuel possesses distinctive characteristics. Notably, it is hygroscopic, absorbing moisture from the atmosphere, which can lead to storage challenges and accelerated corrosion in fuel tanks. The oxidation of ethanol produces corrosive byproducts, gradually damaging engine components. Additionally, due to its lower energy content compared to gasoline, engines require additional additives for equivalent performance.

Grasping the nature of ethanol is vital for forestalling engine complications. Keeping ethanol-enhanced fuel in an airtight vessel helps avert moisture buildup and maintains the integrity of the fuel. Adding Biobor EB, a fuel preservative, to your ethanol-infused fuel can protect against issues that arise with prolonged storage. For superior defense against the erosive tendencies of ethanol, turning to Biobor EB is indispensable. Tailored to combat moisture retention and the resultant rust in critical engine components like valves, pistons, and gaskets, Biobor EB delivers all-around security. Making educated choices about ethanol-mixed fuels and conducting consistent preventative upkeep, such as integrating Biobor EB, are critical measures in preventing engine troubles linked to ethanol-based fuels.

Challenges of Ethanol Use:

Corrosion: Ethanol can be corrosive to metals and degrade certain plastics and rubbers in fuel systems;
Water Absorption: Tends to attract and absorb water, leading to phase separation in fuel and potential engine problems;
Volatility: Ethanol-blended fuels can become less stable over time, especially when stored.
Compatibility: Not all engines are compatible with high-ethanol fuels, potentially leading to damage.