Water content and particulates

The water content of diesel averaged 84 mg/kg during the study period, with the maximum value of 290 mg/kg found in 2012 in Buenos Aires. All samples were below the maximum regulatory limit of 300 mg/kg.

The problems encountered by vehicles from poor quality fuel are often caused by adulteration that occurs in the fuel distribution system, after the fuel has left the refinery. Failure to invest in adequate pipeline and storage facilities, and failure to maintain the equipment, can lead to volatility losses, fuel leakage and contamination by particulates and water that, in turn, can lead to a host of vehicle problems.

The particulate contamination in diesel grade 2 samples averaged 13 mg/kg during 2010-2022, with the maximum value of 107 mg/kg found in 2018 in C