As the popularity of E85 fuel grows in Nashville, understanding the best practices for its storage and handling becomes essential for safety and efficiency. E85, a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline, requires specific precautions to prevent hazards and ensure optimal performance. This comprehensive guide covers the science behind E85, local regulations, detailed storage and handling procedures, common mistakes, and training requirements—all tailored to the Nashville area.

Understanding E85 Fuel

E85 is a renewable fuel composed primarily of ethanol derived from corn or other biomass. It contains between 51% and 83% ethanol depending on season and region, with the balance being conventional gasoline. In Nashville, where corn production is significant, E85 offers a homegrown alternative to imported crude oil. Its high oxygen content reduces tailpipe emissions of carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds, making it an environmentally friendly option for flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs).

Key properties of E85 that affect storage and handling:

  • Lower energy density – about 25% less energy per gallon than gasoline, meaning FFVs get fewer miles per gallon. This is not a safety issue but affects fueling frequency and cost calculations.
  • Higher volatility – ethanol blends have a higher Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP), especially in warmer months, increasing the risk of vapor formation and evaporation losses.
  • Hydrophilic nature – ethanol readily absorbs water from the air, leading to phase separation (water-ethanol layer at bottom of tank) that can damage engines and dispensing equipment.
  • Increased corrosivity – ethanol can corrode certain metals (zinc, brass, aluminum) and degrade rubber seals and gaskets commonly used in older fuel systems.
  • Flammability – while flash point is higher than gasoline, E85 vapor is still highly flammable and explosive if confined.

Understanding these characteristics is the first step to safely managing E85 in a commercial or personal setting in Nashville.

Regulatory Context in Nashville

Nashville and surrounding Davidson County enforce a mix of state and local regulations regarding fuel storage and handling. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) oversees underground storage tank (UST) and aboveground storage tank (AST) rules. Nashville’s Fire Marshal’s Office adopts the International Fire Code (IFC) with amendments specific to the city. Key requirements include:

  • Permit requirements – installing a new E85 tank or dispensing system requires a permit from the Nashville Fire Department and a site plan review by the Metro Codes Department.
  • Spill containment – under TDEC rules, all USTs must have spill containment sumps and overfill prevention devices. For ASTs, secondary containment and diking are required.
  • Monitoring and recordkeeping – operators must conduct monthly leak detection tests, maintain records of inventory reconciliation, and report any release exceeding 25 gallons within 24 hours.
  • Environmental protection – Nashville sits over the Nashville Basin limestone aquifer, making groundwater protection critical. Ethanol releases can contaminate groundwater with high BOD and low pH, so immediate containment and cleanup are mandatory.

Businesses and fleet operators should consult the Tennessee UST Program and the Nashville Fire Department for current rules. Home users storing small amounts in approved containers must still follow basic safety guidelines outlined by the EPA's Renewable Fuel Standard.

Storage Best Practices for E85 in Nashville

Proper storage minimizes vapor emissions, prevents water absorption, reduces corrosion risks, and contains accidental spills. Follow these detailed guidelines for both aboveground and underground storage.

Types of Storage Containers

For small-scale users (fleet vehicles, farm use): Use only containers listed for ethanol-blended fuels. Look for the label “E85 Compatible” or “Blending Pump Compatible” on the container. Materials include:

  • High-density polyethylene (HDPE) – lightweight, corrosion-resistant, but must be UV-stabilized. Do not use older red plastic cans designed for gasoline only, as ethanol can cause swelling and brittleness.
  • Stainless steel (304 or 316) – excellent corrosion resistance; preferred for permanent tanks. Avoid galvanized steel or tin, as zinc reacts with ethanol.
  • Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) – common for underground storage tanks; must be rated for ethanol concentration.

Never use aluminum tanks or piping because ethanol can cause pitting corrosion. All containers must have tight-sealing caps or lids to prevent evaporation and water entry. Use containers with flame arrestors on vents when required by local fire code.

Location and Environmental Controls

In Nashville’s humid subtropical climate, summer temperatures often exceed 95°F with high humidity. These conditions accelerate evaporation and water absorption in E85. Place storage areas with these factors in mind:

  • Cool, shaded locations – avoid direct sunlight. If outdoors, install a canopy or paint tanks with reflective white coating. For underground tanks, maintain proper backfill (sand or pea gravel) to insulate against temperature swings.
  • Well-ventilated – vapors are heavier than air at cooler temperatures but can accumulate in low spots. Use natural ventilation by placing tanks at least 10 feet from buildings and away from pits or basements. Mechanical ventilation may be required for enclosed areas.
  • Away from ignition sources – keep storage at least 50 feet from open flames, electrical equipment, and heating appliances. Nashville’s fire code may require a 25-foot clearance for ASTs containing flammable liquids.
  • Secondary containment – for ASTs, use a containment dike or double-walled tank capable of holding 110% of tank volume. For USTs, the spill containment sump should be watertight and sized to catch at least 5 gallons of leakage.
  • Water prevention – seal all openings. Use a water-absorbing additive if phase separation is a persistent problem, but understand that these additives can alter fuel properties. Ideally, maintain a “heel” of at least 10% tank capacity to reduce headspace condensation.

Inspection and Maintenance of E85 Storage Tanks

Regular inspections catch corrosion, leaks, and equipment failures early. Schedule these activities per Tennessee regulation (monthly for USTs, quarterly for ASTs):

  • Visual inspection – check for rust, pitting, or discoloration on tank surfaces. Look for drips, stains, or odors around fittings. Use a combustible gas detector to sniff for vapor leaks near vents and gaskets.
  • Inventory reconciliation – measure fuel levels daily and record dispensed volumes. A variance exceeding 1% from expected inventory suggests a leak or theft. Nashville operators must submit monthly leak detection reports to TDEC.
  • Phase separation testing – use a water-finding paste or electronic gauge to detect water at the bottom of the tank. If water exceeds 1 inch in height, schedule removal before the ethanol absorbs the water and causes fuel degradation.
  • Corrosion checks – for steel tanks, cathodic protection systems must be tested annually. Check sacrificial anodes; replace if more than 50% consumed.
  • Piping and hose inspection – ethanol can swell or embrittle rubber hoses. Replace flexible connectors every 1-2 years or if cracks appear. Use stainless steel braided hoses for ethanol service.

Keep a maintenance log; it may be required for insurance and regulatory compliance. For professional guidance, consult the Alternative Fuels Data Center for storage tank specifications.

Handling E85 Safely

Safe handling prevents exposure to fuel, reduces vapor inhalation risks, and avoids environmental release. All personnel should be trained on the following procedures.

Dispensing Systems and Equipment

Use only ethanol-compatible pumps, hoses, and nozzles. Common compatibility issues include:

  • Nozzles – must be made of brass, stainless steel, or hard plastic. Avoid zinc-plated or aluminum components. Use automatic shut-off nozzles rated for ethanol to prevent overfill.
  • Hoses – choose synthetic rubber or PTFE-lined hoses. Replace hoses showing signs of swelling, hardening, or cracking. Ethanol can extract plasticizers from some rubber, causing brittleness.
  • Pumps – for submersible turbine pumps (STPs), use models with ethanol-rated seals and vapor recovery systems. For positive displacement pumps, ensure wetted parts are stainless steel or engineering plastic.
  • Vapor recovery – Stage II vapor recovery is required at all retail fueling stations in Nashville. For private fleet facilities, a connection to a vapor balance system or a carbon absorber on the storage tank vent is recommended.

Always test dispensing equipment for leaks before each use. If any component drips, remove it from service and repair before resuming fueling.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Safe Work Practices

When handling E85 directly—during tank filling, equipment maintenance, spill cleanup—wear:

  • Chemical-resistant gloves – nitrile or neoprene (not latex) provide good protection against ethanol. Change gloves after any spill.
  • Safety glasses or face shield – ethanol can cause eye irritation; if splashed, flush with water for 15 minutes.
  • Long sleeves and pants – to prevent skin contact. Ethanol can cause defatting of the skin and dermatitis with repeated exposure.
  • Vapor respirator – if working in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, use a half-face respirator with organic vapor cartridge. Oxygen deficiency is also a risk in tank pits; never enter without proper confined space training.
  • Fire-retardant clothing – when near open flames or hot work, wear approved flame-resistant garments.

Prohibited actions during handling: Do not smoke, use phones, or operate engines within 25 feet of an open fuel container. Ground the container before pouring to prevent static discharge.

Spill Prevention and Response

Spills of E85 are more damaging than gasoline spills because ethanol can draw contaminants into groundwater more readily. Follow these steps:

  1. Prevention – use automatic shut-off nozzles and overfill alarms. Do not top off tanks; leave at least 2% ullage. Keep spill kit nearby—absorbents rated for ethanol spills (e.g., polypropylene pads, clay absorbents designed for polar solvents).
  2. Immediate action for small spills (less than 25 gallons) – stop the source. Contain with absorbent booms or dikes. Absorb the liquid, place in sealed containers, and label as hazardous waste. Ventilate the area. Report to TDEC if spill reaches a surface water or storm drain.
  3. Large spill (over 25 gallons) – evacuate the area, call 911, then notify the Nashville Fire Department and TDEC at 800-262-3300. Do not attempt cleanup without trained responders. Ethanol spills can ignite; use foam (alcohol-resistant, type AR-AFFF) if fire is present.
  4. Cleanup disposal – dispose of used absorbents as hazardous waste. Do not put them in regular trash. Contaminated soil must be excavated and handled by a licensed waste hauler.

Review the EPA’s Emergency Response fact sheets for spill management guidelines specific to ethanol-blended fuels.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls in E85 Storage and Handling

Even experienced operators sometimes overlook critical factors. Avoid these errors:

  • Using old equipment designed for gasoline – aluminum tanks, brass fittings, natural rubber hoses all degrade with ethanol. Always verify compatibility with manufacturer specifications.
  • Neglecting water removal – in Nashville’s humid summers, condensation inside partially filled tanks is common. Check water level weekly; pump out water immediately. Using ethanol from a tank with phase separation can inject water into your engine, causing drivability issues and corrosion.
  • Ignoring vapor recovery – ethanol vapors are odorless; you may not notice a leak. Without vapor recovery, you lose product and create fire risks. Install a pressure vacuum vent gauge and check it monthly.
  • Storing E85 for too long – ethanol can degrade over 6 months, absorbing moisture and forming organic acids. Use a first-in, first-out rotation system. If fuel sits for more than 90 days, add a stabilizer formulated for ethanol blends.
  • Improper grounding and bonding – static electricity can ignite vapor. Always bond the container to the transfer vehicle before pumping. Use conductive hoses and fill pipes.

Training and Compliance for Nashville Fleet Operators

All employees involved in E85 handling should receive initial and annual refresher training. Topics to cover:

  • Properties of ethanol-blended fuels
  • Fire hazards and emergency procedures
  • Proper use of PPE and spill response equipment
  • Regulatory reporting requirements
  • Correct operation of dispensing equipment and leak detection systems

Document each training session with attendee names and written test results. Keep records for at least three years. If your facility is subject to OSHA’s Process Safety Management (PSM) standards for flammable liquids above 10,000 gallons, additional training and hazard analyses are needed.

For compliance assistance, the Tennessee Fire Marshal’s Office offers free resources and can conduct site visits. The Nashville Fire Department’s Fuel Storage and Handling page provides permit forms and inspection checklists.

Conclusion

Safe and efficient storage and handling of E85 fuel in Nashville requires awareness of the unique chemical properties of ethanol, adherence to local and state regulations, and implementation of proper equipment and procedures. By using approved containers, controlling environmental conditions, conducting regular inspections, providing staff training, and preparing for spills, fleet operators, businesses, and individual users can reduce risks and enjoy the environmental benefits of E85. Stay current with regulatory updates via TDEC and the Nashville Fire Department, and always prioritize safety over convenience. With these best practices, E85 can remain a reliable, cleaner-burning alternative fuel for Nashville’s growing fleet of flexible fuel vehicles.