Ethanol-blended diesel fails safety test, says govt; wider use ruled out for now
The Indian government has ruled out the immediate use of ethanol-blended diesel because the mixture significantly lowers the fuel's flash point, posing safety risks. While ethanol blending in petrol continues, further research is required before diesel applications can be considered.
Why it matters
This decision impacts India's broader energy strategy and its goal to reduce dependence on imported fuels through domestic ethanol production.
NEW DELHI: Ethanol-blended diesel has failed the required safety specifications because the addition of ethanol causes a sharp fall in the fuel's flash point, potentially limiting its use unless the technical issue is addressed, the government told Parliament on Monday.Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi said public-sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) had tested ethanol-diesel blends through their research and development centres, working with accredited laboratories and automobile manufacturers."Scientific evaluations on blending of ethanol with diesel have been undertaken by Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) through their respective R&D centres in collaboration with accredited laboratories and automobile manufacturers.
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