Tetraethyl Lead
| Items | Control Standard |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Blue and transparent liquid |
| Tetraethyl Lead | ≥ 61.48% (g/g) |
| 1,2-Dibromoethane | 35.5% ± 1.0 (g/g) |
| Antioxidants | 0.10% |
| Pigment | 1/100000 (g/g) (Blue) |
| Density (20℃) | 1.73~1.80 (g/cm3) |
| Package | Packed in 250kgs steel drum |
Description:
Tetraethyl lead (TEL) is added to gasoline as an additive to increase the octane number of the fuel to prevent knock in the engine, so that higher compression ratios can be used to improve the efficiency and power of automotive engines. And extend the life of each part.
The combustion of TEL produces lead oxide and lead. Lead and lead oxide scavenge radical intermediates in combustion reactions. Engine knock is caused by a cool flame, an oscillating low-temperature combustion reaction that occurs before the proper, hot ignition. Lead quenches the pyrolysed radicals and thus kills the radical chain reaction that would sustain a cool flame, preventing it from disturbing the smooth ignition of the hot flame front.
Although TEL has been banned to add to mogas in recent years, we have to admit that there is still a need for avgas.
Application:
Added to avgas to improve octane number and prevent knock.
TDS-TEL-B-CAS-No：78-00-2-ZXCHEM Group
Q: How to Get Sample of TEL-B?
A: Please contact us to discuss this.
Q: What is Lead Time of Cas No: 78-00-2?
A: Generally, cargo could be loaded on ship in about two weeks after the date of receiving prepayment or L/C. Sometimes one week earlier or later.
Q: How about the TEL-B of ZXCHEM?
Tetraethyl Lead: A Controversial Journey from Innovation to Environmental Hazard
The story of Tetraethyl Lead begins in 1921 when Thomas Midgley Jr., an American chemist, and engineer, discovered its remarkable properties while searching for an effective anti-knock additive for gasoline. “Knocking” or “engine knocking” is an undesirable phenomenon that occurs when the fuel-air mixture in an internal combustion engine detonates prematurely, leading to a loss of efficiency and potential damage to the engine. Midgley’s discovery of Tetraethyl Lead as an anti-knock agent revolutionized the automotive industry, as it offered a cost-effective solution to enhance engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Tetraethyl Lead works as an anti-knock additive by increasing the octane rating of gasoline. The octane rating measures the fuel’s ability to resist knocking, and higher octane ratings result in smoother and more efficient engine operation. When TEL is added to gasoline, it forms lead-containing compounds during the combustion process, which can absorb the energy of shockwaves and prevent knocking.
However, this seemingly beneficial mechanism came with severe downsides. As TEL was burned in engines, it released lead particles and toxic lead oxide fumes into the atmosphere. These fine particles were inhaled by humans, and they also settled on soil and water, leading to widespread environmental contamination. Furthermore, TEL’s use led to the accumulation of lead residues in the engines, requiring the addition of lead scavengers, such as ethylene dibromide, to prevent engine fouling.
As Tetraethyl Lead became widely adopted, its adverse effects began to surface. The occupational exposure of workers in refineries and leaded gasoline production plants caused acute lead poisoning and neurological damage. It was later discovered that even low levels of lead exposure could lead to cognitive impairments, especially in children, causing learning difficulties and behavioral issues. This revelation sparked public health concerns and initiated the push for regulations and eventual bans on TEL.
The scientific community and environmental activists began raising awareness about the hazards of Tetraethyl Lead from the 1960s onward. The mounting evidence of lead poisoning and environmental contamination prompted governments to take action. In response to public outcry and conclusive research, several countries gradually phased out the use of leaded gasoline. The United States, for instance, introduced unleaded gasoline in the 1970s and completely banned the use of TEL in on-road vehicles by 1996.
In High-Performance Engines In the realm of aviation, engine safety is paramount. Aircraft engines must function impeccably, especially during critical phases of flight, such as take-off and landing. Tetraethyl Lead’s ability to prevent engine knocking helped ensure that aircraft engines maintained steady performance during these crucial moments. Moreover, the use of TEL in aviation fuel contributed to enhanced reliability, reducing the likelihood of engine failures that could lead to catastrophic accidents.
Although there are some alternatives to TEL in the aviation industry today., we have to admit that due to some insurmountable reasons, such as the technical difficulties and expensive cost of retrofitted engines, as well as the specific requirements for high octane numbers, TEL is still contributing to mankind.
