Why manufacturers add ethanol to conventional gasoline

Ethanol is a controversial fuel additive. But is it really that bad for cars? If so, is it safe to use ethanol gasoline?

Ethanol in concentrations above 10% can damage many parts of a car. Ethanol can damage the fuel tank, fuel pump, gasket, and draw moisture into the fuel. If engines are not designed for ethanol, they can be completely ruined over time.

In this article, we will cover several reasons why ethanol is bad for cars. We’ll also talk about when it’s safe to use ethanol in your car and what types of vehicles can use this inexpensive fuel.

What is ethanol?

Ethanol (CH3CH2OH) is a flammable alcohol distilled from plants (mainly corn). According to the Alternative Fuels Data Center, about 98 percent of gasoline sold in the United States contains some amount of ethanol.

Ethanol is essentially high-purity grain alcohol, but not the kind you should be drinking. It is produced in a similar manner and has the same clean burning characteristics.

Why does gasoline contain ethanol?

There are many reasons why manufacturers add ethanol to conventional gasoline. Ethanol is an octane booster. Companies can mix lower-quality gasoline with up to 10 percent ethanol and still get 87 octane.

Ethanol (ethanol msds) is more “green” than gasoline. It is made from plants, is theoretically unlimited, and its emissions are less harmful. The distillation and refining process of ethanol is also less toxic and ecologically harmful.

You can also make a strong economic argument for ethanol, as farmers in many parts of the United States benefit from growing “fuel crops.” The corn used in ethanol production is less costly and cannot be used for human consumption. In addition, it has brought valuable economic growth to rural areas.