Compatibility of Elastomeric Materials with Gasohol

Considering the benefits associated with use of Gasoline doped with Ethanol, viz, cleaner environment, energy security, boost to agrarian economy, opening of new avenues of employment in rural sector, Government of India mandated the use of 5% Ethanol blended Gasoline (henceforth referred to as Gasohol) effective from January 2003 in 9 States and 4 Union Territories.

During the implementation of Gasohol, certain compatibility issues related with elastomeric components used in the Fuel Dispensing Equipment and vehicles were reported. To understand the compatibility of different elastomeric materials with Gasohol, a laboratory study was carried out with the elastomeric components that are being presently used in the Fuel Dispensing Equipment and vehicles. Test results obtained in the laboratory were found to be co-relating with the field experience. The details of this study are reported in this paper.