FuelPerformance.news | 10th Edition

🧪 The Chemistry of Fuel Degradation: What’s Really Happening Inside Your Tank

When fuel sits in storage, it doesn’t just wait patiently. It changes. Over time, chemical reactions occur that impact performance, efficiency, and even safety. In this edition of FuelPerformance.news, we’re diving into the science behind fuel degradation - and why understanding it matters.

What Is Fuel Degradation?

Fuel degradation refers to the breakdown of fuel quality over time. This process is influenced by oxygen, water, microbes, and even the materials used in storage tanks. Once degradation starts, fuel may darken, develop odors, lose volatility, or cause operational issues in engines and generators.

The Main Culprits Behind Degradation

1. Oxidation
When fuel is exposed to air, oxygen molecules begin to react with hydrocarbons in the fuel. This creates gum, varnish, and sediment. The result? Clogged filters, reduced combustion quality, and sludge in tanks.

2. Hydrolysis
Water can sneak into storage tanks through condensation, leaks, or poor sealing. In fuels like biodiesel, water can trigger hydrolysis - a chemical reaction that breaks esters into acids and alcohols. The outcome is corrosive and damaging.

3. Microbial Growth
Where water and fuel meet, microbes thrive. Bacteria and fungi feed on hydrocarbons, forming biomass that clogs filters and lines. They also produce acids that corrode tank walls and injectors.

4. Thermal Instability
High temperatures accelerate chemical reactions in stored fuel. Over time, this leads to darkening, loss of cetane or octane value, and poor engine performance.

What Happens Chemically?

• Peroxides form during oxidation, leading to chain reactions that accelerate degradation.

• Acid numbers rise, especially in diesel and biodiesel blends.

• Polymerization may occur, forming heavy molecules that gum up fuel systems.

Why It Matters

If you rely on backup generators, fuel reserves, or stored equipment, degraded fuel can be a silent threat. It can lead to engine failures, downtime, emergency repairs, and increased emissions.

Preventing the Problem

• Monitor storage tanks regularly for water and contamination.

• Keep fuel cool and out of direct sunlight.

• Use appropriate filtration systems and ensure proper tank sealing.

• Consider testing stored fuel periodically to assess stability and quality.

🧠 Bottom Line: Fuel degradation is a chemistry problem with mechanical consequences. Knowing the science behind it helps you stay ahead - and keep your systems running when it counts.

Until next time,
The FuelPerformance.news Team