Isobutanol Blending with Diesel | 12 Sep 2025
India is now exploring isobutanol blending with diesel after unsuccessful ethanol-diesel trials, highlighting the government’s push for biofuels to support farmers, reduce oil imports, and ensure sustainable energy use.
- Isobutanol: It is a four-carbon alcohol (C₄H₁₀O), flammable, colorless, and traditionally used as a solvent in paints, coatings, and chemical industries. It is produced both from petrochemical processes and fermentation of biomass.
- Properties (vs. Ethanol): Higher energy density than ethanol (closer to diesel).
- It has lower hygroscopicity (absorbs less water than ethanol), reducing risks of corrosion in engines and pipelines.
- Isobutanol Blending Trials: Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is testing 10% isobutanol–diesel blends.
- Isobutanol is also being explored as an independent fuel and in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-isobutanol flex-fuel options for tractors and agri-machinery.
- Benefits for India: Isobutanol enhances energy security while promoting a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. Supports India’s National Biofuel Policy (2018) goals of energy transition and farmer income support.