Biodiesel Basics - Fuel of the Future?

Have you ever heard of biodiesel fuel? You probably have, but like many, you may not understand exactly what it is. Many believe that biodiesel fuel is the wave of the future. Country singer Willie Nelson thinks so—he now has his own line of biodiesel fuel. If you are not sure what this new fuel of the future is, read on to discover the basics of biodiesel and why many people feel it is truly the fuel of the future.

Biodiesel fuel is most simply described as a clean burning, yet very viable alternative to fuel that we all now depend upon on. It is produced domestically and is made from renewable resources. This is good news for the United States and good news for the environment. This new type of environmentally friendly fuel does not contain petroleum, but can be mixed with petroleum to create a type of useful blend. In addition, it can be used in diesel engines, unlike regular unleaded gasoline. It does not need modification. Perhaps the best part of biodiesel fuel is that it is very easy to use, is nontoxic and it is completely biodegradable. It also does not contain aromatics or sulfur.

Okay, so now that you know what biodiesel fuel is, you might be wondering just how this futuristic fuel is made. Have you ever heard of transesterification? Transesterification is the process by which biodiesel fuel is made using certain chemical components. More simply put, this process occurs when glycerin is taken away or separate from fat or vegetable oil. When this process is complete, it gives you methyl, glycerin (the same stuff used in soap) and esters, which is the chemical name used for biodiesel.

You may wonder why you just can’t pour a little vegetable oil in your tank to make your car go. That is because raw vegetable oil and biodiesel are not quite the same thing. The type of biodiesel used for fuel, must meet strict standards and specifications so that your car will function to the best of its ability. Furthermore, vegetable oil does not meet those specifications and it is not registers with the Environmental Protection Agency as a proper fuel substitute. It’s not legal according to the EPA. Biodiesel is legal and meets all of the health requirements set forth by the Clean Air Act.

So, the fact that biodiesel fuel is more environmentally friendly and more cost effective may make this type of fuel the biggest thing of the future. In fact, it is estimated that in the year 1999, only 500,000 gallons of biodiesel fuel was used. That number jumped to 75 million gallons in 2005. People are catching on and carmakers are taking notice. It may be that in the very near future all cars will be made to use this form of fuel. It is better for the environment and the United States can produce this fuel without relying on importing fuel from other countries.

What can biodiesel do for the future?

It is better for the humans and animals: This makes biodiesel a good choice for the future and future generations. It is non-toxic and very biodegradable. This is easier on the health of humans and on animals and marine life. It w will not kill fish as regular fuel does. When biodiesel is used it puts out very little odor and has less exhaust. Those that work in the car and automotive industry will not be harmed by fuel vapors.

It is biodegradable: Diesel fuel is only 40 percent degradable. That means the rest seeps into the air, water and the environment. This is not the case for biodiesel fuel. It is 95 percent degradable. This is much better for everyone.

It reduces emissions: Using biodiesel fuel cuts down on the amount of emissions. This is the first alternative fuel to be approved by the Clean Air Act. Biodiesel lets off less unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and other dangerous particles and chemicals.

Now is the time to learn more about the alternative—biodiesel fuel. It is the wave of the future. This type of alternative fuel cuts down on the amount of “bad” stuff that affects the health of humans, animals and the environment.

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For more on biodiesel visit The National Biodiesel Board (NBB).