Originally Posted by wsmempson
One of the main problems with ethanol based eco-fuels is their propensity to absorb water.....there won't be a visual clue as to the loss of grade of fuel or to the potential for corrosion......ethanol based fuel will create maintenance issues.
Non that would be insurmountable though. My brother-in-law has just developed and is marketing a water-in-oil detector which is designed to protect extremely sensitive/ expensive equipment. I am sure he could adapt this to such an application as water-in-ethanol (or even design a new one as he is such a clever chap!) and it certainly wouldn't be beyond the scope of the engine manufacturers. This could have a readout in the re-fuelling station/ flightdeck on airliners and I am sure some simple 'litmus' type test could be developed for G/A.....so don't throw your fuel cup away just yet!!!
PP