Mumbai, July 28: Amid ongoing debates regarding the policy of blending 20% ethanol (E-20) into petrol, Professor Aniruddha B. Pandit, Vice Chancellor of the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), has openly endorsed this initiative. He stated that the E-20 blending policy is scientifically grounded and will not only reduce India’s dependence on crude oil but also increase farmers’ incomes, save foreign currency, and propel the country towards energy self-sufficiency.
In an exclusive interview with a news agency, Professor Pandit addressed concerns that E-20 petrol could damage engines. He clarified that this claim lacks a solid scientific basis, noting that vehicles running on 100% ethanol were operational in India during the 1940s and 1950s. Therefore, questioning the viability of 20% ethanol-blended petrol is unfounded.
He explained, “Ethanol has a slightly lower thermal value than petrol. If older engines do not adjust ignition timing and firing systems, there may be minor differences in mileage and acceleration. However, this issue is negligible in modern engines.”
Most complaints regarding E-20 are associated with older vehicles. Previously, heavy cast iron engines were common, while today’s engines are designed using lighter aluminum and alloys. New engines are already being developed to accommodate ethanol-blended fuels.
Professor Pandit noted that some older vehicles may have rubber and polymer components that could be affected by ethanol. However, this issue can be easily resolved with the use of modern-grade polymers and rubber materials.
He emphasized that issues arising in engines are often due to improper storage of E-20 rather than the blend itself. Ethanol has a high capacity for absorbing moisture. If the petrol-ethanol mixture comes into contact with water or excessive humidity, it can lead to increased water content, causing misfiring, engine clogging, or reduced power. Therefore, safe transportation and storage of fuel are crucial.
India is not alone in pursuing ethanol blending. Countries like Brazil have been blending higher amounts of ethanol into petrol for years, with vehicles successfully operating on 100% ethanol. This demonstrates that the technology is practical and effective.
Professor Pandit suggested that if scientific research on engine technology and internal combustion engines continues to advance, blending 50% to 60% ethanol into petrol could become feasible in the future. He mentioned that modern cars operate efficiently with a 20% ethanol blend, and many vehicles are capable of handling even higher blends.
He further pointed out that various misconceptions about E-20 are circulating on social media. The reality is that engines do not suffer damage; rather, necessary improvements in engine technology occur over time. Just as the automotive industry has reduced engine weight for better mileage and adopted new technologies, similar adjustments are being made for ethanol-blended fuels.
Professor Aniruddha B. Pandit concluded that the greatest benefit of ethanol blending will be for Indian farmers. Previously, ethanol was primarily produced from molasses, but now it is also being derived from sugarcane juice, biomass, and other agricultural sources, providing farmers with an additional income stream.
He noted that India heavily relies on crude oil imports for its energy needs. Increasing domestic ethanol production and usage will reduce petroleum imports, save foreign currency, and enhance India’s energy independence.
Regarding the ethanol blending program led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Professor Pandit asserted that this policy is a step in the right direction. He believes that in the future, the world will need to rely more on renewable fuels, and ethanol is one of the most effective options available.
He urged India to further increase the production of biofuels like ethanol and butanol, enabling the country to achieve energy security and take a leading role in the global clean and sustainable fuel sector.
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