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storage tank contamination

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chemproject

Chemical
Oct 16, 2003
7
Kerosene degrades when it is stored in domestic storage tanks for home heating. Are there any grades of kerosene which degrade slower than others? (such as a kerosene with more heavy ends present..etc)

I know that water is the main culprit of contamination and removing water is the best solution for contamination, but can a refinery produce a grade of kerosene that has a delayed degradation rate?

I have heard companies using biocides and other additives to prolong the life of fuel in the tank, but do these additives work? do they cause other problems?

Do the markers affect the composition of the fuel?

Any feedback is greatly appreciated!
 
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chemproject

Some thing you should be aware of is when water gets into a fuel tank and sets for a prolonged amount of time (3-4 mos)it gets contaminbated with bacteria spores and these have a nasty habit of clogging up the fuel lines and filters so maybe that's why they use biocides..you think?
 
I have heard that biocides can be effective in killing bacteria within the tank, however, the dead cells can no longer remain at the fuel water interface and they begin to build up on the tank bottom causing another separate environment for bacterial growth. This can lead to bacteria that has an immunity to the biocide being used.

Are biocides worth considering if they lead to other problems?
 
The use of galvanized tanks to store diesel and keresone will also cause problems because the fuel reacts with the galvanized finish, causing powdery particles to form. They will clog the fuel filters. The tank should be set at an angle with the didcharge at the high end, with a water drain at the other end. Other info is at the site below. The fuel dealer should have other information on storing and micro - organisms.

 
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