Dangers of Ethanol Blends (IMAGE) Rice University Caption Advection from the fermentation of increased amounts of ethanol spilled into the soil could pose a danger to buildings and people, according to researchers at Rice University. Bacteria breaks liquid ethanol down into methane gas, which expands as it diffuses. The fuel also produces benzene, a toxic hydrocarbon, which can leach into homes. Credit Jie Ma/Rice University Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.