Problem Haze or Emulsion Is Found in Fuel

Under certain conditions, fuel detergents, corrosion inhibitors, and other performance-enhancing additives can emulsify with water to form water-in-oil emulsions. Conditions of low pH, high pH, or high additive concentration may enhance the emulsification of polar organic compounds into fuel. 

Microorganisms living at the oil-water interface in fuel storage systems can accumulate to form a distinct raglike layer of growth. This rag can break free and appear as an emulsion in fuel. The products of microbial metabolism are highly polar and can help to stabilize fuel emulsions. 

Most lubricating oils are higher in viscosity than fuels. Also, many lubricating oil formulations contain additives which provide some level of performance to the oil. If fuel becomes contaminated with lubricating oil, the possibility of emulsifying water into fuel is greatly enhanced. 

Certain cloud point improvers will disperse water into fuel and create an emulsion or haze. This phenomenon can occur at cloud point improver treat rates as low as 200 ppm. 

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