Alkylate Gasoline: Everything You Need to Know

If you are a gardener, whether novice or expert, you probably have questions about the gasoline needed to maintain your lawn, trim your hedges, or prune your trees. You know that choosing the right fuel is essential to ensure the performance and longevity of your machines. But do you know about alkylate gasoline, a greener and healthier alternative to regular gasoline? Discover everything you need to know about this green fuel and how to use it. 
 

Alkylate gasoline is a synthetic fuel obtained through a chemical process called alkylation. This involves combining isobutane molecules (a gas) and olefins (hydrocarbons) under high pressure and in the presence of an acid catalyst. The result is a mixture of very stable saturated hydrocarbons that form alkylate gasoline. 

This gasoline is mainly used as an additive in regular gasoline to improve its octane rating (resistance to auto-ignition) and reduce its pollutant emissions. However, it is also used in its pure form as fuel for two-stroke or four-stroke engines, particularly those of lawnmowers, brush cutters, chainsaws, or blowers. 
 

Alkylate gasoline has several advantages over regular gasoline, whether for the environment, health, or equipment. 

More environmentally friendly: It contains fewer harmful substances such as benzene, aromatics, olefins, or sulfur. Therefore, it emits fewer greenhouse gases, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and fine particles during combustion. This is especially true for alkylate actiSTART, which is bio-based and emits 50% less CO2 than regular alkylate fuel and is entirely made from cooking oils. 

Healthier: It reduces exposure to carcinogenic or irritating substances present in regular gasoline through inhalation. 

More efficient: It offers better energy efficiency and oxidation stability. It optimizes engine performance, improves starting, reduces consumption, and extends engine life. It also prevents issues related to the formation of deposits, varnish, or residues in the carburetor or injectors. Additionally, it retains its properties longer than regular gasoline, which degrades after a few weeks. Alkylate gasoline can be stored for up to 5 years without losing its quality.
 

Using alkylate gasoline for your gardening equipment is similar to using regular gasoline, but you need to follow some rules and precautions. 

For two-stroke engines, mix alkylate gasoline with specific oil in the proportions indicated by the equipment manufacturer. There are also ready-to-use cans of alkylate gasoline already mixed with oil. 

For four-stroke engines, simply pour pure alkylate gasoline into the equipment's tank. 

In all cases, shake the can well before filling the tank to homogenize the mixture and avoid fuel degradation. Store alkylate gasoline in a dry, cool, and ventilated place, away from light, heat, and ignition sources. Finally, close the can properly after each use to prevent evaporation or contamination of the fuel. 
 

Alkylate gasoline is the most suitable fuel for environmentally friendly and healthy gardening. For even more responsible gardening, choose gasoline that meets higher standards, especially in terms of more ecological resources.