This specification covers the methanol fuel blend, M70-M85, for use in ground vehicles that run on automotive spark-ignition engines. Fuels are grouped into three vapor pressure classes (Classes 1, 2, and 3) on the basis of seasonal and geographical volatility. The fuel blends shall undergo chemical analysis for methanol, higher alcohols, hydrocarbon/aliphatic ether, acidity as acetic acid, solvent washed and unwashed gum content, total chlorine as chloride, lead, phosphorus, water, sulfur, and inorganic chloride. The product's appearance shall be clear and bright, visibly free of suspended or precipitated contaminants.

1.1 This specification covers the requirements for automotive fuel blends of methanol and gasoline for use in ground vehicles equipped with methanol-capable flexible-fuel, and dedicated methanol spark-ignition engines. Fuel produced to this specification contains 51 % to 85 % by volume methanol. This fuel is sometimes referred to at retail as “M85.” Appendix X1 discusses the significance of the properties specified. Appendix X2 presents the current status in the development of a luminosity test procedure (flame visibility) for methanol fuel blends (M51–M85).

1.2 The vapor pressure of methanol fuel blends is varied for seasonal climatic changes. Vapor pressure is increased at lower temperatures to ensure adequate vehicle operability and safety. Methanol content and selection of gasoline blendstocks are adjusted by the blender to meet these vapor pressure requirements.

1.3 The United States government has established various programs for alternative fuels. Many of the definitions of alternative fuel used by these programs can be more or less restrictive than the requirements of this specification. See Annex A1 for additional information on alternative fuels containing methanol.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.4.1 Exception—Non-SI units are provided for information only. In most cases, U.S. federal regulations specify non-SI units.

1.5 The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the test method portions–Appendix X2 of this specification. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.