How long can gasoline be stored in a canister?

What does it depend on

Many drivers are interested in whether it is possible to store gasoline at home. Experts confirm that this is possible, but urge you to pay attention to some important points. So, when storing gasoline for a long time, special attention is paid not only to the container in which it will wait in the wings, but also to the following:

• Climatic and natural conditions. This is explained by the fact that the properties of gasoline are lost when the air temperature rises, and when the air temperature decreases, the shelf life of gasoline increases.
• Tightness.
• Material of container walls, etc.

But even if quality is lost, you shouldn’t worry, since you can always restore it. To do this, stored fuel should be mixed with fresh fuel. The main thing is that the gasoline is of the same brand, and the proportion is 1:2, respectively.

Getting into the engine, bad fuel saturates it with resins, which settle on the piston parts, and they become unusable.

Storage duration

For car owners, the question is clear, because there are “summer” and “winter” brands of gasoline, which differ significantly in their properties. Therefore, there is no point in storing gasoline until the next season. But to power generators, saws and other power tools used year-round, it is often tempting to stock up on gasoline in large quantities, given seasonal price fluctuations.

When answering the question of how long gasoline can be stored in a canister, car owners should take into account the following:

1. During long-term (more than 9...12 months) storage of gasoline of any brand, from the common 92 gasoline to solvents such as Nefras, the liquid stratifies. Its lighter fractions (toluene, pentane, isobutane) evaporate, and anti-gumming additives settle on the walls of the container. Vigorous shaking of the canister will not help, but it may cause gasoline vapors to escape.
2. If gasoline is enriched with ethanol, then its shelf life is further reduced - up to 3 months, since moisture absorption from humid air occurs especially intensively.
3. When an unsealed canister is opened, oxygen always penetrates from the air, and with it microorganisms that change the chemical composition of gasoline. The initial start of the engine will become more difficult.

In order to prevent deterioration in fuel quality, composition stabilizers are added to gasoline (55...60 g of stabilizer is enough for a 20-liter canister). However, even in this case, the optimal storage period should not exceed six months, otherwise an engine filled with such gasoline will not last long.

Storage temperature

Temperature affects fuel quality the most. An increase in fuel temperature during storage accelerates the processes of oxidation and resin formation.

The following qualitative limits have been established for temperature: gasoline - no higher than 30 degrees Celsius, kerosene, diesel fuel - no higher than 40 degrees.

That is, the fuel should not heat above these limits. By the way, painting above-ground tanks white helps reduce the temperature of the gasoline stored in them.

Gasoline is not in danger of freezing in our climatic conditions; the temperature required for this is minus 70–74 degrees Celsius.

In general, climate and average temperatures significantly affect the shelf life of gasoline. If in temperate climatic conditions this is a year, then in hot countries it is six months. These periods need to be divided by two to understand how quickly gasoline in a car tank will lose its quality - up to six months in our country, up to three months in hotter areas.

An experienced driver knows that in winter it is better to fill the car tank completely. This will reduce the release of condensation and prevent the formation of ice crystals in the fuel. In summer, it is recommended to fill the tank 2/3 full, because gasoline expands at high temperatures.

The optimal storage temperature for gasoline is plus 15 degrees Celsius.

Gasoline shelf life

Regarding the shelf life of gasoline, anyone can come up with anything. Recommendations vary in time from three months to infinity. The truth is that gasoline is not wine, and it doesn’t get better over time. It really is gradually losing its properties. Moreover, in several directions at once.

1. Firstly, the substances used to adjust the octane number during production evaporate irrevocably from gasoline. However, as a result of this process, the fuel does not turn into a useless liquid. No matter how many of these substances evaporate from it, it will still remain in working condition for many years. The only thing that will change is the burning time. As you know, the lower the octane number, the faster gasoline burns. That is, if due to evaporation the octane number of gasoline is greatly reduced, then engine overheating and detonation may occur.
2. Secondly, gasoline oxidizes over time. This process occurs when fuel interacts with oxygen contained in the air. The more gasoline oxidizes, the more tarry residue remains after its use. Moreover, not only in the combustion chambers, but also in the channels of the fuel system.
3. Thirdly, gasoline is prone to separation with the precipitation of fine particles. In this case, what is scary is not so much the delamination, but the sediment itself. It clogs fuel lines and shortens filter life. Gasoline cannot delaminate so much that it loses its ability to burn when stored at home.

Let's get back to the deadlines. By and large, all of the above-described loss of properties can continue for many years. Accordingly, the longer gasoline is stored, the worse its properties will be used. However, this does not mean that fuel will have to be disposed of after one-year or even five-year storage. It can be used as before.

If gasoline in its pure form was stored under optimal conditions, then even after five years it will “work” no worse than what was just purchased. These terms do not apply to fuel mixtures consisting of gasoline and oil, which are used to refuel equipment with two-stroke engines.

The reason lies in the fact that gasoline very quickly neutralizes the properties of the oil diluted in it, and the mixture will lubricate the piston group parts worse. In addition, as practice shows, after using the “old” mixture, the channels and surfaces of the carburetor quickly become clogged, and the spark plugs become overgrown with carbon deposits. Moreover, it makes no difference whether you used expensive or cheap oil to prepare the fuel mixture for a two-stroke engine.

The shelf life of pure gasoline, as mentioned earlier, significantly depends on the conditions under which the fuel is contained. Therefore, it is worth dwelling on this point in more detail.

Safety precautions come first

Gasoline is a flammable liquid, and its vapors are especially dangerous to human health due to their toxicity and explosiveness. Therefore, the question of whether it is worth storing gasoline in an ordinary apartment in a multi-story building will only answer in the negative. In a private house, a few options are possible: a garage or an outbuilding. Both must have good ventilation, as well as serviceable electrical fittings (most often gasoline vapors explode after a spark in poor contact).

In the premises it is necessary to maintain the proper temperature conditions, because even after 25ºC the evaporation of gasoline is unsafe for others. And it is absolutely unacceptable to store gasoline near open flame sources, open sunlight or heating devices. It doesn’t matter whether your stove is flaming, gas or electric.

The distance factor is also significant. Gasoline vapor is heavier than air and can travel across the floor to ignition sources. In the USA, for example, a safe distance is considered to be 20 m or more. It is unlikely that you have such a long barn or garage, so you should have fire extinguishing equipment on hand (remember that you cannot extinguish burning gasoline with water!). For the initial localization of the source of fire, sand or dry earth is suitable, which should be sprinkled on the floor from the periphery to the center of the flame. Then, if necessary, use a powder or foam fire extinguisher.

Does gasoline have a service life?

Creating huge reserves of gasoline is pointless , since it is definitely susceptible to spoilage.

And even following all storage recommendations will not help in this matter; the maximum you can count on is 5 years .

The presence of temperature changes, exposure to humidity and many other negative factors systematically reduce the value of gasoline.

Ultimately, this leads to the complete loss of the product's properties.

Shelf life according to GOST

As for GOSTs, it states that the shelf life of gasoline of any brand is 5 years from the date of production. Minor temperature changes are allowed during the storage period. However, it is assumed that the fuel will be stored in special underground tanks, it will not be heated by sunlight and outdoor air, and its contact with oxygen will be minimal. If the required storage conditions are not met, the shelf life of gasoline is significantly reduced. It is unlikely that buyers will be able to comply with the fuel storage conditions at home or in the basement, so gasoline will lose its properties much earlier - within 1-2 years.

How long can different types of gasoline be stored?

In Soviet reference books it is noted that the shelf life of gasoline is 5 years. Modern literature and standards (in particular, the current GOST of 1997), with rare exceptions, do not recommend using fuel that has been in a canister for more than 12 months.

The difference in standards is due to changing technologies. Previously, other substances were used for ethylation, including tetraethyl lead. Thanks to it, gasoline retained its properties much longer, but the additive was recognized as harmful to the environment and is no longer used.

The 12 months shown are an average. It does not take into account factors that could affect safety, such as brand. Storage time decreases as the octane number increases.

AI 95

The maximum permissible shelf life of AI 95 gasoline according to current standards is 2 years. The specified value also corresponds to GOST. However, the stated duration is only valid if the tank contains fuel. In a canister, AI 95 will deteriorate within the first 12 months.

AI 92

In terms of shelf life, AI 92 is practically no different from the previous type of fuel. The difference is so insignificant that it is calculated not even in weeks, but in days.

A76

According to GOST, A76 gasoline retains its properties in a canister for 2 years. A tank or recessed tank adjusts the stated time upward.

Features of storage containers

Choosing a storage container is a fairly important , because all other nuances depend on this choice.

In canisters made of steel and aluminum, gasoline can be stored for at least a year. The main thing is to monitor the integrity of the gasket on the cover and promptly change it when signs of corrosion by fuel fumes appear.

The period is similar when using special plastic canisters with appropriate markings.

Other types of plastic canisters are not recommended for use, including due to the possible accumulation of static charges in the plastic, which ultimately can lead to fire.

Plastic containers are definitely not suitable, especially drink bottles.

Gasoline, like other active liquids, is highly chemically reactive , so the development of a chemical reaction with plastic is inevitable.

Fuel barrels , characterized by increased tightness, in addition protect the product from the negative effects of sunlight, and therefore the storage period in them is at least two years.

To avoid temperature changes and exposure to ultraviolet rays, it is better to bury such a tank in the ground.

Survivability of gasoline and diesel fuel

The service life of gasoline is calculated from the moment of production. The GOST, which was in force during Soviet times, allowed it to be used for 5 years. It is now believed that under good conditions this period is 1 year.

IMPORTANT! The period of possible use depends on storage conditions.

View

The possibility of storage is determined by the detonation resistance of the fuel and the probability of its deterioration.
The higher the number (Au 92, 95, 98), the shorter the period of permissible use, since properties are lost faster. Diesel fuel should be stored at 20 °C for about a year, if the temperature rises - for a shorter period.

ADVICE! It is not recommended to store liquids for refueling a car. Even with full compliance with the regime, it is impossible to ensure the preservation of pristine qualities.

Capacities

The characteristics of the container where gasoline will be stored affect its quality and shelf life:

1. A steel, aluminum canister or closed barrel will retain its properties for up to a year. It is important to monitor the integrity of the rubber gasket on the lid, as this guarantees tightness and minimizes the impact of external factors. It may need to be changed periodically as the rubber will corrode. It is advisable that the canister has an internal protective coating for electrostatic safety.
2. A plastic base for a gasoline can is a less good choice. This material accelerates oxidation and accumulates static charge, potentially leading to fire.
3. Regular plastic bottles are strictly prohibited for overfilling, even for a short time.
4. A tanker truck or reservoir is the best option; they will retain the properties of the fuel for up to 2 years. If you bury them in the ground and ensure the lid is sealed, then the impact of the environment and temperature changes will be minimal.
5. When a car sits idle with a full tank for more than 6 months, it is not recommended to start it. Before doing this, all fluids should be changed.

Deadlines

The period of possible use of gasoline and diesel fuel depends on storage parameters. But it is important before each filling of the tank to carry out a visual inspection, checking sediment, separation of fractions - these factors will indicate suitability at the moment.

Extends the shelf life of containers that do not react with liquid, minimizing sunlight, temperature changes, and tightness.

Storage conditions

The conditions in which fuel is stored differ for garages, large dealers and manufacturing plants. Formally, GOST says that fuel can be stored in a closed container for 1 year, but in fact, decomposition processes begin almost immediately after contact with air. Thus, the main criterion for storing gasoline is how airtight the container is.

If AI gasoline is placed in a steel canister where air does not penetrate, and the room temperature ranges from 0 to +20 degrees, then the contents can be left for up to 1 year without loss of quality.

If the fuel is placed in a plastic canister (or is in a tank), and the temperature is outside the established limits, then it is recommended to store it not for long - no more than 1 month. An important point is that the fuel should not react with the material from which the container is made.

Is it possible to use expired gasoline?

Expired fuel cannot be used in its pure form. The main reason for this is that the fuel loses its detonation properties, the octane number decreases, and the catalytic additives decompose. Gasoline stored for too long can damage the internal combustion engine.

But this does not mean that the fuel will simply be thrown away. If necessary, it can be mixed with fresh gasoline in a ratio of 1:3 and then filled into the car. In addition, you can fill such gasoline into power units that are less demanding on quality.

Is it possible to use expired?

A decrease in octane number is not a reason to completely abandon the use of such fuel. It’s just that the quality of such a product will be far from ideal, and this must be taken into account.

Read here whether coolant has an expiration date.

categorically unsuitable for further use only if stored for more than 5 years.

Watch also a video about storing gasoline:

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Author of the article –

Kolkovsky Yuri Sergeevich

Shelf life depending on capacity

As we have already found out, according to GOST, fuel is stored for five years under ideal conditions. If you bury the tank in the ground, the storage conditions will be close to ideal. In other cases, gasoline will deteriorate faster.

How long fuel will be stored depending on the tank:

1. Car tank – six months.
2. Metal canister – 1 year.
3. A tank or barrel located in the basement - about two years.
4. A special tank that stands on the site in the shade - about three years.
5. A special tank completely buried underground - up to five years.

Therefore, if you do not have a special tank, then there is little point in stocking up on fuel. It is also worth considering that many gas stations in Russia sell far from the highest quality gasoline, which may not comply with GOST at all. Its shelf life is reduced already upon purchase.

Storage tank material

If you want to maximize the shelf life of 92 gasoline (or 95), then you need to use a metal sealed tank. A barrel, canister, tank or other similar containers are ideal. But storing fuel in plastic tanks is extremely undesirable due to the slow chemical interaction of fuel with plastic, as well as the accumulation of static charge.

Some drivers store gasoline in ordinary plastic bottles, but this is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. Not only can gasoline lose its properties, but it can also damage the container, which will lead to the destruction of the container and the emergence of a dangerous situation, because the fuel will flow out. Experts also say that plastic accumulates a static charge, and this can lead to fire. Although in reality this is unlikely.

If you do not take these factors into account, then otherwise storing gasoline in plastic is no different from storing it in a metal tank.

What to do after the expiration date

If the expiration date is exceeded, chemical changes will occur in the gasoline, significantly reducing the octane number. If such fuel is used, lead carbon deposits form in the combustion chamber of the engine, leading to changes in its functioning.

Prices for gasoline and other types of fuel are rising every day. Therefore, many motorists prefer to stock up on gasoline, storing it in special barrels or cans. However, few people know how long gasoline can be stored, mistakenly believing that this fuel has an unlimited shelf life.

How long can gasoline be stored?

The political situation in the country is constantly changing, which has a significant impact on the cost of fuel. It is constantly growing, and many consumers are finding it impossible to refuel their vehicles. Some car owners remember the cans and barrels that are in the garage, and begin to wonder what the shelf life of AI 92 gasoline is. If you think about the shelf life of gasoline, then you need to take care of suitable conditions for storing fuel.

Gasoline storage should be carried out taking into account the air temperature, which may vary in all areas. There are two types of fuel:

• summer;
• winter.

During short-term storage, the properties of gasoline remain unchanged. You don't have to worry about safety for six months. However, according to standards and composition requirements, fuel cannot be stored for a long time in small containers, barrels or carriers.

Tightness

If the container is not sealed, the fuel will evaporate. Moreover, the higher the temperature, the faster. Gasoline contains highly evaporating fractions that increase the octane number. Ensure tightness and you will preserve the quality of stored fuel longer.

To reduce interaction with air, containers must be filled with fuel to 95 percent.

In addition, when interacting with air, gasoline will oxidize. The use of oxidized fuel reduces the service life of vehicle systems, leads to the deposition of resins inside the engine, carbon deposits in the cylinders and on spark plugs.

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Does gasoline spoil during storage?

You must understand that gasoline is not the simplest substance. It contains various hydrocarbons, the quantity and type of which are determined by the manufacturing technology, and in addition, numerous additives added by the manufacturer. At the time of leaving the factory, the product meets the requirements, but then it begins to change. And this is caused by several factors.

It is no secret that gasoline contains highly volatile fractions that are added to increase the octane number. The longer the fuel's shelf life, the higher the probability of its change. It is clear that this is not in the direction of improving performance. When volatile substances evaporate, the ratio between fractions is disrupted and the quality of gasoline decreases.

It is clear that if this happens in a car tank, then nothing bad will happen; as a rule, such gasoline is used in a short time. But evaporation negatively affects the storage of gasoline at home.

Oxidation

All substances interact with oxygen. Gasoline is no exception. As a result, resinous substances are formed in it. However, over time, their number increases, causing gasoline to deteriorate. Its use can lead to resin deposits on pipelines, reservoirs, as well as increased carbon deposits in cylinders and spark plugs.

The oxidation process itself takes quite a long time and over several stages. Its speed depends on environmental conditions (pressure, temperature), as well as on the fuel manufacturing technology. Here we need to make a small digression.

The ability of gasoline to interact with oxygen (to oxidize) is characterized by the induction period parameter. It refers to the time required for the onset of oxidation at a temperature of 100° and a certain oxygen pressure. This is tested in laboratory conditions. The higher this parameter, the higher the stability of gasoline.

It primarily depends on the carbon composition of the fuel, which is determined by production technology. The most susceptible to oxidation are gasolines produced by thermal cracking, pyrolysis, and catalytic cracking; their induction period is 50–250 minutes. The products obtained by direct distillation and catalytic reforming are more stable.

Induction period for gasoline obtained:

• catalytic cracking is 240-1000 minutes;
• direct flight – 1200 minutes;
• catalytic reforming – over 1500 minutes.

Is it possible to store gasoline in a car tank?

The shelf life of gasoline in this situation will depend on many factors, but it will still be shorter when compared with storage in a special container. Storage time depends on the air temperature, the brand of gasoline and the gas tank. Due to temperature changes, gasoline, after 2-3 months of such storage, will lose some of its properties, the octane number will become lower, and it will contain substances that can harm the car engine.

According to standards, gasoline can be stored for 5 years. But, even with proper storage, after only a year, fuel without additives cannot be used in modern cars. A number of experiments have already proven this point of view.