The Evolution of Gasoline and Octane Additives: From Lead to Ethanol

The history of gasoline and octane additives mirrors technological advancements, evolving public health knowledge, and environmental awareness. Initially a byproduct of oil refining, gasoline rose to prominence with the invention of the automobile in the late 19th century. As car engines became more powerful, the need for octane additives to prevent engine knocking became paramount. The story of gasoline’s evolution is also the story of how octane additives, once dominated by toxic substances like lead, have shifted toward more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives such as ethanoL Key Topics and Takeaways Intro – host Zane Hood interviews Todd Perry about…