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I didn't know about the history of MTBE until reading this, that bit was pretty interesting. The thing that bothers me most about ethanol is that it is hygrosc
by mech987 5y ago
I didn't know about the history of MTBE until reading this, that bit was pretty interesting.
The thing that bothers me most about ethanol is that it is hygroscopic and ruins gasoline after sitting for relatively short periods of time in humid conditions (weeks to months).
- PopAlongKid 5y agoAs a consequence, it can also require expensive maintenance/repair to an engine that has such gasoline left in it, such as a lawnmower sitting idle over the winter season, or a portable gas-powered generator kept for use during power outages. Here in California, I can buy a gallon of real gasoline in a can for about $25 retail, to use for such devices in storage. (So, for example, after using the generator, I have to run it to empty to get all the ethanol out, then put a little of the real gasoline in the tank for storage purposes).
- mech987 5y agoOne reason I'm glad I don't live in California :) Around here in NC you can find ethanol-free gas at some particular gas stations for a reasonable price, usually maybe 20% markup over normal gas prices.
- mikeyouse 5y agoYou can buy it in California too - less common due to their CARB requirements but places that service boats/offroad vehicles will have "recreational fuel" that's typically higher octane but ethanol-free.