This specification covers a fuel blend, nominally 51 to 83 volume % ethanol for use in ground vehicles equipped with ethanol fuel blend flexible-fuel spark-ignition engines. Ethanol fuel blends, also referred to as “Ethanol Flex Fuel” shall conform to the performance requirements prescribed. Ethanol fuel blends shall be visually free of sediment and suspended matter. The vapour pressure, acidity, pHe requirements, gum content, inorganic chloride, water requirements, copper requirements, and sulphur requirements shall be tested to meet the requirements prescribed.

1.1 This specification covers the requirements for automotive fuel blends of ethanol and gasoline for use in ground vehicles equipped with ethanol fuel blend flexible-fuel spark-ignition engines. Fuel produced to this specification contains 51 % to 83 % by volume ethanol. This fuel is for use in flexible-fuel vehicles and is sometimes referred to at retail as “Ethanol Flex-Fuel.” Appendix X1 discusses the significance of the properties specified.

1.2 The vapor pressure of ethanol fuel blends is varied for seasonal climatic changes. Vapor pressure is increased at lower temperatures to ensure adequate flexible-fuel vehicle operability. Ethanol content and selection of hydrocarbon blendstock are adjusted by the blender to meet these vapor pressure requirements.

1.3 This specification formerly covered Fuel Ethanol (Ed70-Ed85) for Automotive Spark-Ignition Engines, also known commercially as E85. The nomenclature “fuel ethanol” has been changed to “ethanol fuel blends” to distinguish this product from denatured fuel ethanol Specification D4806. To facilitate blending of ethanol fuel blends that meet seasonal vapor pressure requirements, a new lower minimum ethanol content has been established.

1.4 The United States government has established various programs for alternative fuels. Many of the definitions of alternative fuel used by these programs may be more restrictive than the requirements of this specification. See 4.1.2.1 for additional information on alternative fuels containing ethanol.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.6 The following safety hazard caveat pertains only to the test method portion, 8.1.8, 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.

1.7 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.