Biodiesel is an alternative fuel formulated exclusively for diesel engines; it’s made from vegetable oil or animal fats.
Biodiesel can be mixed with petroleum diesel in any percentage, from 1 to 99, which is represented by a number following a B. For example, B5 is 5 percent biodiesel with 95 percent petroleum, B20 is 20 percent biodiesel with 80 percent petroleum, or B100 is 100 percent biodiesel, no petroleum.
Produced in accordance with strict industry specifications, commercial biodiesel that meets ASTM D6751 is legally registered with the Environmental Protection Agency as a legal motor fuel for sale and distribution. Biodiesel also has a following of home-brew enthusiasts.
Pros: A Yes Vote
- Cleaner than diesel: Biodiesel reduces emissions of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and particulate matter.
- Renewable: It’s plant based, therefore what is used can be re-grown.
- Support of local agriculture: It’s another way to support your farmer.
- Longer engine life: Biodiesel is a natural lubricant.
- Pleasant exhaust smell: When burned, the fuel emits a fried food or barbecue aroma.
Cons: What to Be Aware of
- Requires special handling in cold weather.
- Slightly less energy content than diesel fuel.
- Tends to deteriorate non-synthetic or natural rubber fuel system parts (hoses, seals).
- Depending upon the state of engine tune, there can be slightly higher levels oxides of nitrogen in exhaust emissions.
- 2007 Biodiesel & Diesel Vehicles Available
Handling & Safety
Biodiesel is biodegradable—up to 4 times faster than petroleum diesel—and non-toxic. It will not spontaneously ignite under normal circumstances since it has a high flash point. It has a mild, rather pleasant odor.
Potential
The future looks very bright for biodiesel. Not only is it easy to find and use, newer efficient diesel cars boast excellent fuel mileage. It’s one of the easiest alternative fuels to implement into your life: simply find a fueling station and pump it into the tank of any diesel vehicle and drive away. Check out how the cost of biodiesel compares.
Biodiesel 101: Learn More About BiodieselVehicles Available
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