Amorphotheca resinae

This fungus is recognized as a primary agent of microbial contamination in jet fuel, diesel, and other petroleum-based products stored in tanks.

It exists primarily as a mycelial growth that thrives at the interface where water and fuel meet, forming tough, rubbery mats or biofilms.

The fungus produces microscopic conidia (spores) that easily travel through fuel lines or air currents, facilitating rapid spread throughout storage facilities.

Research indicates that Amorphotheca resinae exhibits high metabolic versatility, allowing it to survive in harsh chemical environments that are toxic to other microorganisms.

The presence of water, typically in the form of condensate at the bottom of fuel tanks, is the essential requirement for the fungus to initiate its growth cycle.

Development is most robust within temperate conditions, with optimal temperatures usually falling between 20°C and 30°C.

Stagnant fuel conditions provide the stability required for the fungus to anchor its mycelium to tank walls and accumulate significant biomass.

Trace amounts of inorganic salts and organic contaminants in the fuel-water mixture act as nutrients that further accelerate fungal proliferation.

Inadequate sealing of fuel storage tanks allows for the continuous entry of spores from the environment, leading to chronic contamination issues.

The most severe impact is microbial induced corrosion (MIC), where fungal metabolic byproducts create localized acid environments that pit steel and aluminum surfaces.

Biofilms can cause severe operational issues by physically clogging fuel filters, pumps, and fuel injectors, often resulting in engine performance loss.

The fungal mass can degrade the chemical additives and surfactants in the fuel, reducing its performance efficiency and safety standards.

Contamination spreads rapidly through distribution systems, potentially affecting entire supply chains and causing significant financial losses in maintenance costs.

It can also degrade polymer-based components, such as seals and gaskets, leading to dangerous fuel leaks and equipment failure.

Strict water management, including frequent draining of water bottoms in tanks, is the most effective way to eliminate the fungal habitat.

The use of approved biocidal additives is essential to inhibit fungal growth and prevent the formation of persistent biofilms in fuel systems.

Implementing a routine microbiological surveillance program ensures that fuel quality is monitored and contamination is identified early.

Applying specialized epoxy linings to the interior of storage tanks reduces the surface area suitable for mycelium attachment.

• Regular mechanical cleaning of storage reservoirs.
• Consistent use of fuel stabilizers.
• Maintenance of air filtration systems to limit spore entry.