EXPERIENCE WITH BIO-ETHANOL GASOLINE BLENDS

Ethanol, especially from biogenic sources, is increasingly being used as a component in transportation fuels in many regions of the world. Widespread use may lead to problems for manufacturers of the fuels, for the supply chain, for the fuel marketers and, last but not least, for the automobile user. These difficulties include corrosion due to water uptake and more engine deposits as a result of impurities in the ethanol. Each partner in the industry faces the challenge of minimizing the risk in his segment while taking maximum benefit from the use of ethanol. The development is viewed as an opportunity to further improve the quality of fuels regarding fuel economy, emissions control and driveability. On the basis of results obtained in engine tests, laboratory tests and the application of our additives in ethanol fuels in the US, Brazil, Thailand, China, Sweden and other markets, the presentation shows that modern synthetic performance additives are top-performing in most ethanol fuels around the world. The fuels available in certain markets may require an increase in the overall additive dosage or in the level of corrosion inhibitor. A special problem with increased valve-sticking tendency in Scandinavia required the development of a new additive package.