302 Ethanol Tankers Rejected in Quality Checks
The government has highlighted the quality-control system used for ethanol blending after public sector oil marketing companies rejected 302 tank trucks that failed to meet procurement specifications over a two-year period.
Ethanol Tankers Rejected in Quality Checks
Between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2026, oil marketing companies rejected 302 tank trucks carrying approximately 10,500 kilolitres of ethanol across India.
The consignments were rejected after failing to meet one or more quality parameters specified under ethanol procurement tenders. Suppliers are required to ensure that every consignment complies with the prescribed Bureau of Indian Standards specifications before delivery.
Ethanol Purity Tested Before Blending
Registered suppliers must provide denatured anhydrous ethanol with a minimum purity of 99.6% by volume. Every tanker must carry a test certificate covering purity, water content, relative density, appearance, sulphur content and the required quantity of denaturant.
When a tanker reaches an oil company terminal or depot, samples are collected from the top and bottom of each compartment. These are tested for appearance, colour, ethanol content, density and possible hydrocarbon contamination before the consignment is accepted.
OMCs Monitor Ethanol Storage Quality
Ethanol storage tanks must be segregated, water-free and cleaned at least once every two years or whenever required. Tanks are also fitted with silica gel vent traps to prevent moisture from entering.
Stored ethanol is tested every month, while stock remaining unused for more than three months must be retested before blending. Oil companies also conduct daily reconciliation between ethanol stocks and the quantity blended with petrol.
Public sector oil marketing companies consumed approximately 2,030 crore litres of ethanol for petrol blending during the 24 months ending June 2026.
