I just subscribed to an Ethanol Magazine (electronic version) and found several rather interesting articles.
Here is an article which admits that the newly approved 15% ethanol has a very tough challenge to overcome before it can make it to market. The RVP (Reid Vapor Pressure) is a limit that EPA imposes on gasolines in the summer months. It cannot exceed 9 psi (pounds per square inch) in the May 1st thru September 15th period because if it does, it emits hydrocarbons (in this case - ethanol) to the atmosphere which would be in violation of air emission regulations. It turns out, "E-15" cannot meet these regulations........will be very interesting to see how this affects the introduction of E-15.
Here's the first few paragraphs of the article (little long) and the link to read the entire article if you'd like to read it all:
E15: Cracking the RVP Nut
New blend won’t qualify for One Pound Waiver, presenting huge hurdle
By Jeremy P. Greenhouse | October 18, 2011
When the U.S. EPA granted Clean Air Act fuel waivers allowing gasoline containing 10 to 15 percent by volume of ethanol (E15) for use in model year 2001 and newer light-duty motor vehicles, the agency included the following condition, as published in the Jan. 26, Federal Register:
“The final fuel must have a Reid Vapor Pressure not in excess of 9.0 psi [pounds per square inch] during the time period from May 1 to September 15.” (Read entire article at link above)
