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The introduction of E20 petrol in India has been a significant move in the direction of reduced dependence on crude oil imports and the use of eco-friendly fuels. Even though E20 fuel comes with many advantages to offer, some reports have brought to light the problems associated with its usage during monsoons. The owners of petrol pumps have argued that the E20 fuel may get affected due to water contamination due to the inherent hygroscopic properties of ethanol.

 

 

The composition of E20 fuel consists of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. As compared to petrol, ethanol is a hygroscopic substance, which means that it is naturally prone to absorbing water from the surrounding environment. In the case where water increases in fuel storage E20 above acceptable levels, ethanol would get separated from petrol and mix with water. This is referred to as phase separation, where water-ethanol mixture settles at the bottom of the storage container while petrol floats on top of it. The fact that fuel dispensers dispense fuel from the bottom of the fuel storage container means that there is a possibility of water-based fuel getting to vehicles rather than the right E20.

 

Where contaminated fuel ends up in vehicles, it could cause drivers to:

• Have problems in starting engines 

• Engine stalling after refuelling 

• Engines running roughly 

• Reduced fuel efficiency in severe cases

 

Fuel pumping operators are concerned that moisture may cause corrosion in old mild steel fuel storage containers and pipelines. Fuel losses have been experienced by some dealers when contaminated fuel has to be thrown away.

 

It is clear from the government agencies' statements that it is not just E20 fuel which gets contaminated by moisture. The presence of water in the fuel storage system is a no-go zone irrespective of the kind of fuel. They confirm that India's E20 fuel adheres to the specifications of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and that there have been upgrades made in several dispensing systems by replacing seals and washers with ethanol-friendly components. Fuel dealers should ensure that they check their underground tanks for moisture contamination, particularly when the monsoon arrives, and if found, they should segregate it from being used.

 

The motorists can avoid problems arising due to fuel by following the below mentioned tips:

• Filling their vehicle with fuel only at reputed petrol pumps with higher fuel circulation. 

• Not filling their vehicles immediately after floods if the petrol pump appears contaminated. 

• Making sure that their fuel cap is tightly closed to avoid the entry of water inside the car's fuel tank. 

• Immediately informing the petrol pump if the engine behaves abnormally after fuelling.

 

The latest issues with E20 fuel in the rainy season have been mostly linked to the fuel storage facilities and not the fuel. The ability of ethanol to absorb moisture is an issue, but government officials believe that the already existing standards for fuel quality and frequent inspections are meant to avoid any kind of contamination. As India moves forward with using more of the E20 petrol, storage facility upkeep will be vital.