Frequently Asked Questions about Biodiesel

What is Biodiesel?
Biodiesel is a biodegradable, clean burning alternative fuel made from domestic, renewable resources. Biodiesel can be blended with petroleum diesel in any proportion to create a biodiesel blend. Biodiesel blends are denoted as "BXX" with "XX" representing the percentage of biodiesel contained in the blend (ie: B20 is 20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel). Biodiesel and its blends can be used in nearly all diesel engines.

How is biodiesel made?
Biodiesel is made through a chemical process called transesterification whereby the glycerin is separated from feedstocks such as recycled cooking oil or virgin vegetable oil. The process leaves behind two products -- methyl esters (the chemical name for biodiesel) and glycerin (a valuable byproduct used in soaps and other products).

Is biodiesel approved for use in the U.S.?
Yes. Biodiesel is registered as a fuel and fuel additive with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and meets clean diesel standards established by the California Air Resources Board. Biodiesel has also been designated as an alternative fuel by the Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Transportation. Biodiesel is the first and only alternative fuel in the country to have successfully completed the EPA’s health effects testing requirements of the Clean Air Act.

Is biodiesel the same thing as raw vegetable oil?
No. Fuel-grade biodiesel must be processed in accordance with strict industry specifications (ASTM D6751-06) in order to ensure trouble-free performance. Biodiesel that meets ASTM D6751-06 requirements and is legally registered with the Environmental Protection Agency is a legal motor fuel for sale and distribution. Raw vegetable oil cannot meet biodiesel fuel-grade specifications, is not registered with the EPA, and is not a legal motor fuel.

Why should I use biodiesel?
Biodiesel is better for the environment because it is made from renewable resources and results in a substantial reduction of polluting emissions such as hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. Biodiesel is less toxic than table salt and biodegrades as fast as sugar. Biodiesel’s superior lubricating properties can prolong engine life and reduce overall maintenance costs. Because of its higher flash point, Biodiesel is less combustible than petroleum diesel and therefore safer to handle, store, and transport. And since biodiesel is made domestically from renewable resources such as vegetable oil, its use decreases our dependence on foreign oil and contributes to our own economy.

What are the applications of biodiesel?
Biodiesel can be used in all diesel-powered vehicles, boats, generators, and heavy equipment. In addition to private owners of diesel-powered cars, trucks, boats, and RVs, commercial biodiesel consumers include trucking companies, government agencies, transit systems, school districts, construction companies, farmers, fishing fleets, and more.

Can I use biodiesel in my existing diesel engine?
Yes. Biodiesel can be used in any diesel engine and requires no modifications to the fuel system. In fact, Rudolph Diesel, who first introduced the diesel engine at the World Exhibition in Paris in 1900, designed his engine to run on peanut oil. There are just a few things that biodiesel users need to be aware of. The solvent properties of biodiesel and biodiesel blends release sediment deposits that accumulate in fuel tanks and lines due to previous use of petroleum diesel. The release of these sediments can result in the need to change fuel filters more frequently when first using biodiesel until the fuel system has been cleaned of previous deposits. The solvent properties of biodiesel can also soften and degrade fuel hoses and fuel pump seals made of certain types of elastomers and natural rubber compound over time. Though most vehicle manufacturers now use components compatible for biodiesel use, owners of older vehicles may need to have their hoses and seals replaced if they wish to use pure biodiesel or biodiesel blends above B20. Biodiesel blends of B20 or less have not exhibited elastomer degradation and require no modifications. One last concern is the use of pure biodiesel in colder temperatures, when it has the tendency to gel. To avoid flow problems, consumers should use a biodiesel blended with winterized, conventional diesel in proportions of B20 or lower. Anti-gel additives can also help.

Does biodiesel cost more than petroleum diesel?
With the cost of oil rising above $45 a barrel, biodiesel has become more cost-competitive with petroleum diesel. Current prices of biodiesel range between $3.18 and $3.25 a gallon.

Where can I purchase biodiesel?
Energy Alternative Solutions, Inc.’s BioEASI B100 and other biodiesel blends can be purchased through the distributors listed on our where to buy page. In addition, the National Biodiesel Board maintains a nationwide list of biodiesel retailers on its web site. To find a station near you, check out the Nationwide Station Locator.

Photo by Krista Kennell