Enzymes Attack Fuel System Superbugs

Hugo Walls earliest recollection of fuel system contamination dates to a Readers Digest article he read in the 1960s about a Second World War cruiser trying to raise steam to escape Valetta Harbour in Malta as dive bombers approached. The ships boilers were coughing, spluttering and finally died. Despite the fuel gauges reading full and everything appearing normal, an inspection of the bunkers revealed a three foot long frond of growth.

Microbial contamination on diesel fuel. Photo courtesy of ECHA Microbiology Ltd.

Hugo Walls earliest recollection of fuel system contamination dates to a Readers Digest article he read in the 1960s about a Second World War cruiser trying to raise steam to escape Valetta Harbour in Malta as dive bombers approached. The ships boilers were coughing, spluttering and finally died. Despite the fuel gauges reading full and everything appearing normal, an inspection of the bunkers revealed a three foot long frond of growth.