Comparing 3 Month Storage of Atlantic Alkylate Fuel and Regular Gasoline

Gasoline powers millions of vehicles worldwide, but not all gasoline is created equal. When comparing regular gasoline to alkylate fuel, the differences go beyond just price or availability. The quality and stability of these fuels can have significant impacts on engine performance, environmental health, and safety. This post explores the hidden dangers of regular gasoline by examining a simple but revealing experiment involving two jars filled with these fuels and various materials. The results highlight why alkylate fuel stands out as a safer, cleaner alternative.

Comparison of alkylate fuel and regular gasoline jars showing fuel clarity and condition

What Is Alkylate Fuel?

Alkylate fuel is a high-quality, clean-burning fuel produced by combining light olefins with isobutane in the presence of a catalyst. This process creates a fuel with a uniform molecular structure, free from many of the impurities found in regular gasoline. Alkylate fuel contains fewer aromatics and olefins, which are compounds that contribute to engine deposits and harmful emissions.

Because of its purity, alkylate fuel burns more completely and produces fewer pollutants. It is often used in sensitive engines such as those in marine equipment, lawn mowers, and small engines where fuel quality directly affects performance and longevity.

The Experiment: Comparing Fuel Stability and Quality

The experiment involved filling two identical jars with various materials and then adding alkylate fuel to one jar and regular gasoline to the other. Both jars were sealed and left for a period to observe changes.

Observations

• Alkylate Fuel Jar: The fuel remained clear and unchanged in color. The seal stayed intact, and there was no visible fuel loss or contamination.

• Regular Gasoline Jar: The fuel turned dark brown and murky. The seal was damaged, leading to fuel loss and contamination of the jar’s contents.

  
  

These results reveal critical differences in fuel stability and chemical behavior.

Why Does Regular Gasoline Darken and Degrade?

Regular gasoline contains a mixture of hydrocarbons, including aromatics and olefins, which are less stable than the components in alkylate fuel. Over time, exposure to air, heat, and light causes these hydrocarbons to oxidize and break down. This process produces gums, varnishes, and other deposits that darken the fuel and reduce its quality.

The damaged seal in the regular gasoline jar suggests that the fuel’s chemical activity can degrade storage materials, leading to leaks and evaporation. This degradation not only wastes fuel but also poses safety risks due to increased volatility and potential for fire hazards.

Impact on Engines and Equipment

Using degraded or low-quality fuel like regular gasoline can cause several problems:

• Engine Deposits: The gums and varnishes formed from oxidized gasoline can clog fuel injectors, carburetors, and valves.

• Reduced Performance: Poor combustion leads to lower power output, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.

• Increased Emissions: Incomplete burning releases more pollutants, contributing to air pollution.

• Engine Damage: Long-term use of degraded fuel can cause corrosion and wear inside the engine.

  
  

In contrast, alkylate fuel’s stability prevents these issues, helping engines run cleaner and last longer.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Regular gasoline’s impurities contribute to smog formation and harmful emissions such as benzene, a known carcinogen. The darkening and breakdown of gasoline also increase the risk of leaks and spills, which can contaminate soil and water.

Alkylate fuel, with its cleaner burn and chemical stability, reduces these environmental risks. It also poses fewer health hazards during handling and storage.

Practical Tips for Choosing and Storing Fuel

• Choose Alkylate Fuel for Sensitive Engines: If you operate small engines, marine motors, or equipment requiring clean fuel, alkylate fuel is a better choice.

• Store Fuel Properly: Use airtight, approved containers to prevent oxidation and evaporation.

• Avoid Old or Contaminated Fuel: Fuel stored for long periods or exposed to air can degrade quickly.

• Check Seals and Containers: Damaged seals can lead to fuel loss and contamination.

  
  

Cost vs. Value: Why Pay More for Alkylate Fuel?

Alkylate fuel often costs more upfront than regular gasoline. However, the benefits include:

• Longer Engine Life: Reduced deposits and corrosion lower maintenance costs.

• Better Performance: Cleaner combustion improves fuel efficiency.

• Lower Environmental Impact: Reduced emissions support cleaner air.

• Safer Storage: Less volatility and chemical breakdown reduce risks.

  
  

For many users, these advantages outweigh the initial price difference.

Summary

The comparison between alkylate fuel and regular gasoline jars clearly shows the hidden dangers of using regular gasoline. Its tendency to darken, degrade, and damage storage containers reflects chemical instability that can harm engines and the environment. Alkylate fuel’s stability and purity make it a safer, cleaner alternative that supports better engine health and reduces pollution.

Choosing the right fuel means protecting your equipment, saving money on repairs, and contributing to a cleaner environment. Consider switching to alkylate fuel for your sensitive engines and take steps to store all fuels properly to maintain their quality.