Document YGDvyEpQMV86gdVpgYYO7vOJy

September 11, 1942 Mr. W. Si, McEldowny, Gulf Oil Refining Company, Gulf Building, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. - Bear Mr. Me Eldowny* In the course of investigation authorized by the Office of Scientific Research and Development, we have been studying the means of avoiding difficulties from the transportation of drinking water In containers previously used for gasoline. The work has progressed to the point where certain field studies are required, and, therefore, we have been attempting to obtain fifty-gallon drums as Well as various other gaso line containers, Into which water can be put and sampled from time to time for its lead and gasoline content. The informa tion could not be obtained at army posts, and, therefore, we have been sounding out some of the local distributors of gasoline with the idea of obtaining their co-operation. Ith reference to drums, our purposes would be served by having drums that have been In continual service as containers for leaded gasoline. Our understanding is that occasionally drums of aviation gasoline are received at your local bulk station, but that these drums must be shipped out immediately after being emptied. It has occurred to us that you might find It possible to authorize the men at your local bulk station to hold up several of these drums until certain tests can be carried out on them. Approximately five such drums would suit our purposes, and the fAllowing procedure would be carried out. The dinimS would be cleaned by simple methods which we expect to standardize. They would then be filled with water and al lowed to stand for eight days, Samples would be taken at the end of the first, second, fourth, and eighth days* This would necessitate tying up five drums for a period of not more than ten days* We realize that this is something of an inconvenience and that it may even be impossible. On the other hand, this information is needed for the armed forces, and we have no hesitation In asking that you consider the matter and let us know what can be don. . Please accept my thanks for the courtesy of an early reply. In view of our previous co-operative relationships, Itrust you will be quite frank in this matter Sincerely your3, N5309