"Life savers" for boat motors

Metabolic products of unwanted microorganisms in a diesel tank: They enter the fuel system, clog the fuel filter, and cause malfunctions as well as engine failure. (Image: MFT Mikrofiltertechnik)

While conventional diesel has been virtually sterilized and is bacteria-free after the refining process, contamination with bacteria can occur at any time during refueling. (Image: ©CorinaDanielaObertas - stock.adobe.com)

In combination with biodiesel, microorganisms can cause irreparable damage and costly malfunctions to boat engines. Vink Chemicals has developed an effective biocide called grotamar®82, which is used for tank treatment and prophylaxis. Users such as MFT Mikrofiltertechnik from Geesthacht successfully utilize it to prevent malfunctions in engines and to address the cause.

Fuel filters clog, tanks become contaminated, or engines fail – microorganisms, known as diesel bacteria, cause the feared diesel plague among boat owners. Since biofuel has been increasingly added to fuels, this problem has become more frequent. With grotamar®82, Vink Chemicals has developed a biocide that is highly effective against its spread and can also be used prophylactically to prevent microorganism proliferation.

Petrodiesel may contain up to seven percent of the chemical fatty acid methyl esters derived from the transesterification of plant or animal fats and oils. However, biodiesel has a lower storage stability. When several months pass between refueling stops, oxidation is promoted, leading to an increase in the water content of the fuel. Bioslime formation in the tank is intensified – creating ideal conditions for rapid microbial growth.

grotamar®82 – increased storage stability of fuels

grotamar®82 from Vink Chemicals is based on the broad-spectrum and long-lasting formaldehyde-releasing agent 3,3'-Methylenbis[5-methyloxazolidin], also known as MBO, and is used as a biocide for cleaning and preserving diesel. The additive is free from organically bound chlorine, highly soluble in all types of diesel fuels and biodiesel. It improves the anti-corrosive and antioxidant properties of the fuel and keeps the tank system sustainably clean. The innovative protective formula against premature oil aging works especially effectively with diesel fuels containing biodiesel, increasing their storage stability and providing optimal long-term protection for tanks, lines, and engines.

Saviors of affected engines: Proven in practice

Among the users of grotamar®82 is also MFT Mikrofiltertechnik GmbH from Geesthacht near Hamburg, which specializes in the distribution of products related to tank treatment and also performs these treatments. Managing Director Christian Burmester uses the biocide both for acute bacterial infestation and for prophylaxis and has been convinced of its effectiveness: “We have conducted multiple tests and compared additives; grotamar®82 has consistently proven to be an excellent immediate remedy and an outstanding long-term protection against microbial material destruction.”