Isobutanol Blended Fuel – Alternative to Ethanol?

I’m not a fan of ethanol-blended fuel for small engines, particularly for older engines or equipment that sits idle for extended periods of time… like most of my small engines. I’ve simply had too many carburetor and fueling system problems, including moisture, damaged fuel lines, softened rubber components and seals.. I know others may not share the same perspective, but this is my experience.

I avoid using ethanol fuel by now purchasing from a local station that offers an ethanol-free gasoline, what they call “sport fuel”.  It’s intended for outboards, snowmobiles, and other small engines.  I buy fuel 10 to 15 gallons at a time and ALWAYS use a a fuel treatment, such as Sta-Bil blue.  Note by the way, that purchasing premium fuel is not a guarantee that the fuel is ethanol-free, in fact, often (usually?) it’s not.

However, I’ve been doing some reading regarding an up-and-comer that may eventually replace ethanol as a fuel extender.  Isobutanol is considered a viable alternative to ethanol but has few of the negatives typically associated with ethanol, such as:

• Higher energy content
• Doesn’t absorb water at the same rate
• Easily mixed with gasoline

In addition, isobutanol can be created from bio-mass such as corn, similar to ethanol and is produced in a similar manner, though the specific process varies.  While ethanol is regarded as a first generation fuel additive, isobutanol is considered a second generation solution.  Though to-date there’s little significant movement towards isobutanol as a substitute for ethanol, it may only be a matter of time.

One can always hope…