FTIR Investigation of the Effect of Storage on Ogogoro-Gasoline Blend's Stability

Abstract

Ethanol has wide application as spark ignition (SI) engine fuel and its usage comes as blend with gasoline or as sole fuel. Industrially produced anhydrous ethanol has been the type of ethanol used for this purpose. There has been conscious drive by governments and researchers over the years for a shift from environmentally detrimental energy sources to more environmentally friendly and renewable energy sources. Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrums were obtained from ogogoro in its pure state and when mixed with 90% by volume of gasoline before and after a year of storage. The spectrums obtained before and after storage were compared and the results showed that there was no significant change in their chemical compositions. The FTIR results and physical observation showed that the ogogoro and its blends were chemically and physically stable, confirming its suitability as fuel for spark ignition engines.