June 18
A new coalition is warning users of the potential impact of mid-level ethanol blends on engines, vehicles and other equipment.
The Alliance for a Safe Alternative Fuels Environment, a coalition of consumer groups and manufacturer associations, released a report June 13 that concludes increasing ethanol blends beyond 10 percent could lead to "adverse, large-scale impacts" on existing on- and off-road equipment.
"The technical challenges and data gaps strongly indicate the need for significant additional study," said Ron Sahu, the reportīs author.
Mid-level ethanol blends can increase combustion heat release and damage fuel and emission control systems of equipment not specifically designed to burn higher levels of ethanol, Sahu said. The report will be available at the coalitionīs Web site, which is under development.
To subscribe or visit go to: http://www.wastenews.com