As an environmental chemist with a focus on the history and impact of chemicals in everyday life, I can provide an in-depth analysis of why tetraethyl lead is no longer used in gasoline.

Tetraethyl lead, a highly potent neurotoxin, was once widely used as an antiknock agent in gasoline. Its use began in the 1920s and continued for several decades due to its effectiveness in increasing the octane rating of gasoline, which in turn reduced engine knocking or pinging. Engine knocking occurs when the air-fuel mixture in an engine detonates prematurely, leading to a loss of power and potential damage to the engine.
Tetraethyl lead helped to prevent this by allowing the use of a higher compression ratio in engines, which improved fuel efficiency and performance.

However, the use of tetraethyl lead came with significant environmental and health costs. It was found that the lead in the exhaust fumes from vehicles using leaded gasoline was a major contributor to air pollution. Lead accumulates in the environment and can enter the food chain, posing a serious risk to both human health and wildlife. Exposure to lead can cause a range of health problems, including neurological damage, developmental delays in children, and even death.

The realization of the dangers of lead exposure led to a growing movement to phase out leaded gasoline. This movement was bolstered by the development of alternative antiknock agents, such as ethanol and methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), which were found to be less harmful to the environment and human health. Additionally, advances in engine design and fuel formulation allowed for the production of gasoline with higher octane ratings without the need for lead additives.

The phase-out of tetraethyl lead from gasoline was a gradual process that varied by country. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began regulating lead emissions in the 1970s, and by the late 1990s, leaded gasoline had been completely phased out. Other countries followed suit, with the last few countries eliminating leaded gasoline in the early 2000s.

The transition away from tetraethyl lead in gasoline was a critical step forward in environmental protection and public health. It demonstrates the importance of scientific research and regulatory action in addressing the long-term impacts of chemical use on society and the environment. Today, unleaded gasoline is the standard, and the legacy of tetraethyl lead serves as a reminder of the need for continuous vigilance in the development and use of chemicals.

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Today I found out why lead used to be added to gasoline. --Tetraethyl lead-- was used in early model cars to help reduce engine knocking, boost octane ratings, and help with wear and tear on valve seats within the motor. ... This causes loss of power and damage to the engine.Nov 14, 2011read more >>