80% ethanol mixed with 20% diesel

E75, 20% diesel, and 10% 95 octane gasoline would have the same performance and fuel economy as using 95 octane gasoline alone, and if there could be any potential damages to the engine. The response is that this mixture could potentially damage the car's fuel system and cause corrosion in the fuel lines. There is also uncertainty about how this mixture would work in a gas engine. It is suggested that using this mixture could damage both spark-ignition (SI) and compression-ignition (CI) engines. The person conducting the experiment admits that their car is already mostly scrap and that they wanted to test the mixture, but the engine initially ran poorly before
  • #1
Low-Q
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Would this mixdure be equivalent in performance and fuel economy as 95 octane gasoline? Any possible damages to the engine if I try this mixdure?

Br. Vidar
 
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  • #2
Unless the car is a flex fuel vehicle the elastomers in the fuel system could be damaged. In addition corrosion of the fuel lines can occur. As far as the diesel fuel goes, I have no idea how it would work in a gas engine.
 
  • #3
Sounds like a good way to ruin both SI and CI engines.
 
  • #4
SteamKing said:
Sounds like a good way to ruin both SI and CI engines.

The car is 98% scrap already. Just wanted to test it. So I gave it a mild start. 70% E75, 20% diesel, 10% 95 oktane gasoline. The engine ran like a kenguru - it did for the first 50 km, then it runs smooth. Can't tell what the milage is yet until the tank is empty - if the engine last for that long...

Vidar
 
  • #5
,

I must inform you that the performance and fuel economy of a mixture of 80% ethanol and 20% diesel may not be equivalent to that of 95 octane gasoline. While ethanol does have a higher octane rating than diesel, it also has a lower energy density. This means that it may not provide the same level of power and efficiency as gasoline.

In terms of potential damage to the engine, it is possible that using this mixture could lead to issues such as corrosion and buildup of deposits in the fuel system. This is because ethanol has different properties than traditional gasoline and may not be compatible with certain engine components.

I would advise caution when considering using this mixture in your engine. It is always best to consult with a professional mechanic or the manufacturer of your vehicle to ensure that the fuel you are using is suitable for your specific engine and will not cause any damage. Additionally, it is important to follow proper fuel blending guidelines and ratios to minimize any potential negative effects on your engine.

In conclusion, while 80% ethanol mixed with 20% diesel may be a viable alternative fuel option, it is important to consider the potential differences in performance and the possibility of engine damage before using it in your vehicle.
 

1. What is the purpose of mixing 80% ethanol with 20% diesel?

There are a few potential reasons for mixing ethanol with diesel. One possibility is to create a more environmentally friendly fuel by reducing the amount of harmful emissions produced by diesel engines. Another reason could be to extend the supply of diesel fuel, as ethanol can be produced from renewable sources. It may also improve engine performance in certain conditions.

2. How does this mixture affect engine performance?

The impact of mixing ethanol with diesel on engine performance can vary depending on the specific blend and engine type. In general, ethanol has a higher octane rating than diesel, which means it can help prevent engine knocking and improve power output. However, it may also result in reduced fuel economy and cold-start issues in colder climates.

3. Is this mixture safe for use in all diesel engines?

While ethanol-diesel blends have been approved for use in most diesel engines, it's important to consult your vehicle's manufacturer for specific recommendations. Some older engines or high-performance engines may not be compatible with this mixture and could potentially result in damage or decreased performance.

4. What are the potential environmental benefits of using this blend?

By using a blend of ethanol and diesel, there is potential to reduce harmful emissions such as carbon monoxide and particulate matter. This can result in improved air quality and reduced impact on the environment. Additionally, ethanol is considered a renewable fuel source, making it a more sustainable option compared to traditional diesel fuel.

5. Are there any drawbacks to using this blend?

As with any fuel mixture, there are potential drawbacks to using ethanol-diesel blends. These may include increased costs, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine compatibility issues. Additionally, ethanol can absorb water from the atmosphere, which can lead to fuel contamination and potential engine damage over time if not properly stored and used. It's important to carefully consider the trade-offs and consult with experts before using this blend in your vehicle.

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