New ASTM standard for butanol use in engines

As butanol continues to show strong potential as a biofuel, a new ASTM International standard has been introduced covering butanol intended to be blended with petrol at 1 to 12.5% volume for use as an automotive spark-ignition engine fuel.

ASTM D7862-13, the specification for Butanol for Blending with Petrol for Use as Automotive Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel, was developed by a subcommittee of ASTM International Committee D02 on Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels and Lubricants.

It establishes performance requirements and test methods for butanol content, water content, acidity, inorganic chloride, solvent-washed gum, sulfur content and total sulfate.

‘The new ASTM standard for butanol will further commercialisation of a new renewable fuel and provide a fuel quality standard to govern the production and marketing of butanol,’ says Glenn Johnston, executive VP of regulatory affairs at renewable chemical company Gevo and a D02 member.

Johnston believes butanol has several benefits as a blending agent in petrol: ‘It is compatible with existing vehicles and refueling infrastructure, and it also offers a high blending value due to its low vapour pressure, high octane number and favourable distillation properties.’

ASTM believes the D7862 specification will be used by biofuel producers, petroleum refiners, petrol blenders, government agencies, inspection laboratories, plus manufacturers of motor vehicles, marine engines and outdoor power equipment.

The subcommittee next plans to develop a proposed standard on the use of butanol in flexible fuel vehicles.