From information provided by the NC Petroleum Marketers Association:

" "…only E85-compatible materials should be used in the storage and dispensing systems. Most operating problems with ethanol-fueled vehicles have been traced to contaminated fuel. Consequently, choosing the right materials for fuel storage and dispensing systems and following proper fuel handling procedures are crucial for successfully operating ethanol-fueled vehicles."
" "… Dispenser hoses, nozzles, and fitting connectors are the same for aboveground and underground fuel storage systems."
" "Avoid components made from zinc, brass, lead, aluminum, or other soft metals. The ethanol fuel may cause leaching from such soft metals, which may contaminate the vehicle's fuel system and could result in poor vehicle performance."
" "Most metal underground storage tanks that meet EPA December 1998 codes, can be used to store E85. Many underground fiberglass tanks that meet EPA standards may also be used to store E85. However, fiberglass storage tanks manufactured prior to 1992 MAY NOT be able to handle E85. If you wish to use an existing fiberglass underground storage tank that was manufactured prior to 1992 to store E85, contact then National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition (NEVC) for additional information.

The NMMA and John McKnight will be taking this up in the coming months. To follow this, go to  www.nmma.org/government/environmental/ and view the topics at the bottom including Issues associated with the Use of Higher Ethanol Blends (E17-E24).