Determining fuel contamination, particularly by water, alcohols, or oils, can be approached through various methods. Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) is a precise but complex option. Simpler, portable alternatives include density tests, as gasoline and water have distinct densities and do not mix. Observing the heat released during combustion can also indicate contamination, as water in the fuel will not contribute energy during burning. For practical testing without advanced tools, a graduated cylinder and a digital scale can facilitate density measurements. Drying agents like Calcium Chloride can absorb water, but they won't confirm its presence. Observing the fuel's clarity and filtration behavior can also provide clues; for example, opalescent fuel or slow filtration through paper indicates potential water contamination. While contamination by alcohols is less concerning since they can still combust, identifying them accurately typically requires more sophisticated equipment.
