ARS | Publication request: ALTERNATIVE DIESEL FUELS FROM VEGETABLE OILS AND ANIMAL FATS

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: October 27, 2000
Publication Date: October 27, 2000
Citation: DUNN, R.O., KNOTHE, G.H. ALTERNATIVE DIESEL FUELS FROM VEGETABLE OILS AND ANIMAL FATS. MEETING ABSTRACT. 2000.

Technical Abstract: Biodiesel, defined as the mono-alkyl esters of fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats, is a strong candidate alternative fuel for combustion in compression ignition (diesel) engines. With respect to petroleum middle distillates (petro-diesel), biodiesel has superior cetane number and lubricity characteristics, has comparable heats of combustion and kinematic viscosities, and is non-flammable making it safer to store and handle. Biodiesel is renewable and can help reduce dependence upon imported petroleum. Biodiesel is environmentally friendly because it is readily biodegradable and its combustion reduces most harmful exhaust emissions, including carbon monoxide, unburned hydrocarbons, particulate matter, and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. In the United States, the Energy Policy Act (EPACT) of 1992 and Clean Air Act with its subsequent amendments have combined to help establish a favorable atmosphere for development of biodiesel; however, many technological hurdles must be removed before widespread commercialization will be feasible. During cooler weather, biodiesel "gels" at temperatures near freezing (0C) compared with temperatures in the range 15 to 17C for petro-diesel. Another concern for biodiesel is its long-term storage stability with respect to oxidative degradation. Finally, most research indicates that biodiesel does not significantly reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. This is a particular concern because NOx may react in the atmosphere to form ozone, a component of smog. This work reviews recent progress in the development of biodiesel with emphasis on removing these technological hurdles.