As greater demands are put on the refineries to meet EPA standards, fuel quality continues to change with the addition of more oxygenates and other additives, the tendency of fuel to be affected by bacteria, water and oxidation is increasing. Fuel is not perfect when refined and once fuel leaves the refinery, it is subject to attack by oxygen and microorganisms such as bacteria that grow in the fuel ingesting fuel molecules and expelling non-standard molecules as by-products. With the passage of time these processes of oxygen attack and microorganism growth contribute to the increase in the concentration of non-conforming molecules that are present in small quantities when fuel leaves the refinery. These non-conforming molecules prevent engines from performing at their optimum level and can prevent fuel delivery systems from functioning.
Extensive research devoted to our area of expertise in hydrocarbon fuel reformulation bears directly on this area of concern for high fuel quality. We would like to share with you two recently completed evaluations.
Test 1. Oxidation Stability ASTM D525
Paragon Labs in Michigan performed an Oxidation Stability test (ASTM D525.4016 procedure attached). This test provides an indication of the age of fuel and the fuels ability to resist oxygen attack and formation of gums.
The attached test report. (FFC Test ASTM D525 2002) from Paragon Labs was performed on a sample of New York fuel. This sample was near the lower limits of acceptable for sale in the US (Minimum 240 minutes). Portions of this fuel were subjected to the FFC for a 24-hour soak and a seven-day soak. The results indicate that after 24 hours the fuel was improved by 57% and after seven days there was a similar finding. This indicates that the presence of the FFC not only prevents premature oxidation but it is capable of restoring fuel to a higher quality. These results are similar to those previously obtained by APSI in a 1996 report from Auto Research Labs in Illinois (FFC Test ASTM D5251996).
Test 2. Influence of the Fitch Fuel Catalyst on Bacterial Growth in Gasoline
APSI has engaged the Dept of Chemistry at the University of Connecticut to perform a series of investigations into hydrocarbon fuels. The investigation that is the subject of this report is one in that series. We are enclosing a copy of this recently concluded evaluation. The results of these studies show a significant reduction in bacterial growth in gasoline that is attributable to the introduction of the FFC into the fuel sample. Bacteria are a major cause of premature aging of fuel and one of the reasons there are so many fuel additives and cleaners on the market today.
These reports are significant and definite proof that the FFC will keep fuel fresh longer thereby reducing the tendency of fuel to form varnishes and gums, which damage fuel system components. With the integration of the Fitch Fuel Catalyst into every machine manufactured, the fuel in the machine will be of the highest possible standard and quality. The fuel insurance that the Fitch Fuel Catalyst provides guarantees there will be fewer fuel system problems and a better running engine.
Bacterial Studies on the Effect of Fitch Fuel Catalyst in Gasoline
The University of Connecticut has been engaged to perform certain investigations into hydrocarbon fuels by Advanced Power Systems International Inc of Lime Rock Ct. The investigation that is the subject of this report is one in a series funded from grants by the United States Government, Department of Defense. The DOD granted to APSI over $500,000 to investigate, 1: The viability of using the Fitch Fuel Catalyst technology as a means to reduce fuel losses by preventing premature aging of stored fuel. 2: The use of this improved fuel in reducing overall operating costs predicated on superior combustion. This report describes work done at UCONN under contract to APSI Inc. Dr. S. Suib and Dr. Claudia P. Koerting of UCONN Principal Investigators. Dr. A. Berlin head of Research and Development for APSI supervised this work. The work performed in this report was performed between November 2001 and May of 2002.
Purpose of the Investigation Rationale and Justification
In this investigation the researchers endeavored to construct an experiment that would measure the effect the presence of Fitch Fuel Catalyst (FFC) has on a bacteria known to degrade or breakdown fuels.
Bacteriology
The objective of the bacteriological studies on the FFC was to determine the antimicrobial effect of the FFC on bacterial growth in fuel. To prepare for this study a literature search was performed for bacteria that can grow using fuel, especially gasoline, as food. Both single and mixed cultures were considered for study. The factors considered in the search of an optimum bacterial strain included the following:
(i) Easy availability
(ii) Easy growing conditions
(iii) Detectable results within a short course of time, and
(iv) Biosafety level 1 (non-pathogenic)
(v) Commonly used as a model fuel-biodegrader
The literature spans over 30 years of study of microorganisms, which can consume fuel.
Conclusion
Bacteria growth in the presence of 2% gasoline increased until the addition of the FFC, day 10. Viable counts declined post FFC addition. (Figure 1, 2) It is clear that there is a suppression of growth of bacteria in the sample with the FFC present with respect to the sample where the FFC was not present.
Note: Details of this report upon request.
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