Biodiesel is a naturally oxygenated fuel produced from organic feed sources
Sample feed stocks include soybeans, cooking oil, animal fats, and used cooking greases
Biodiesel can be used in its pure form, B100, and must meet ASTM D6751 specification
Often blended with petroleum diesel to achieve cost efficiency and improve cold weather performance. A typical blend, B20 has 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel
Using biodiesel
Can be used in any diesel vehicle (bus, truck, farm equipment) without modification
Acts as a solvent and can loosen deposits in the fuel system left by petroleum diesel, so it may be necessary to change out your fuel filter after initial use of a high biodiesel blend
Vehicles produced prior to 1993 should have rubber seals in fuel pumps and fuel systems replaced with non-rubber (Viton) seals
It may also be utilized in stationary applications such as diesel generators and boilers
Performance
Biodiesel performs similarly to traditional diesel
B100 may result in a minimal power loss at the high end and a slight loss in fuel economy
B20 users generally experience no difference in fuel economy from petroleum diesel
Reduces wear and tear on the engine, reducing maintenance costs and extending engine life
Biodiesel blends can be easily stored and dispensed in existing facilities
B100 can thicken in cold weather (below 40 degrees F) and minor adjustments or modifications are required
Emission benefits
Significantly lower emissions than petroleum diesel
Reduces carbon monoxide by 12% with B20 and 47% with B100
Reduces hydrocarbons by 20% with B20 and 67% with B100
Reduces particulate matter by 12% with B20 and 48% with B100
Reduces air toxins by 20% with B20 and 60-90% with B100
Eliminates all sulfur emissions with B100, and a 20% reduction with B20
Reduces visible smoke and other noxious odors
Possible 78% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions over entire production process
Additional benefits
3.2 units of energy gained for every 1 unit of fossil fuel energy used in producing biodiesel
Non-toxic and biodegradable, with no threat to water and soil resources if B100 is spilled
Producing biodiesel from oil or animal fat wastes can reduce those materials in landfills
Relatively safe with no combustible vapors and a flash point around 300F (B100)
Reduces dependence on fossil fuels and provides alternative markets for farmers
Low blends of biodiesel (B2) are highly effective at enhancing the lubricity of diesel fuel, a concern when considering new Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel requirements
Where to get biodiesel
Many retail locations and distributors are located throughout North Carolina
