How can you tell if mixed fuel has chemicals in it?
In brief
An unusual smell or colour, layers that do not behave like water, or reactions such as heat or fizzing. If you suspect it, keep the container closed and tell us what may have gone in. Call 07950 582635 or send an enquiry.
What chemicals in mixed fuel does
Chemicals can change the hazards of the whole load, damage engines and seals, and make the fuel impossible to recover.
If you find chemicals in mixed fuel
Stop using the fuel, keep it in a closed container away from drains and ignition sources, and note roughly how much there is. Often not.
How City Fuel Services handles waste mixed fuel
City Fuel Services buys, collects and handles waste mixed fuel for businesses, public bodies, farms and households. Describe the load and we come back with terms before booking the collection.
Terms used in this answer
- Flash point
- The lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off enough vapour to catch light. Petrol's is around minus 40 °C; diesel's is above 55 °C.
- Diesel bug
- Bacteria and fungi that grow where water meets diesel in a tank. They form slime and sludge that block filters.
| Problem | Chemicals and solvents in Mixed fuel |
|---|---|
| Recoverable? | Often not. |
| Fuel | Mixed fuel |
| Also called | mixed petrol and diesel, cross-contaminated fuel, petroleum distillates |
| Waste code | 13 07 03* (other fuels (including mixtures)) |
Related questions
- How do you stop chemicals getting into mixed fuel?
- Is mixed fuel contaminated with chemicals hazardous waste?
- Who collects mixed fuel contaminated with chemicals?
- What happens to chemically contaminated mixed fuel after collection?
- What happens if chemicals get into mixed fuel?
- Can mixed fuel contaminated with chemicals be recovered?
- How can you tell if mixed fuel has water in it?
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Mixed fuel in brief
Mixed fuel is petrol and diesel (and sometimes other fuels) that have ended up in the same container, most often when vehicles are drained during depollution or when a vehicle is misfuelled. Mixed fuel usually keeps recoverable value.
Official guidance: GOV.UK: hazardous waste.