Biofuel and renewable diesel are not the same!

Traditional biofuel (diesel) and renewable diesel come from the same feedstock - but they are far from the same thing.

Biodiesel is a fatty acid methyl ester - FAME, produced by the transesterification, where vegetable oils or animal fats react with methanol (or ethanol) in the presence of a catalyst to form biodiesel and glycerin. Renewable Diesel is a hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), produced by hydrotreating. This process utilises hydrogen to remove oxygen from fats/oils, resulting in a diesel with a similar chemical structure to standard mineral diesel, enabling it to be used as a 100% drop-in replacement.

Biodiesel is used as a blended product with mineral diesel, most commonly in B5 or B7 formulations (5% & 7%, respectively).  However, blends of B20 (20%) or greater, such as B100 (pure biodiesel), may require the user to check with vehicle manufacturers regarding compatibility and warranty implications, or consider engine modifications, as they may not be compatible with all diesel engines.

HVO100 renewable diesel is a ‘drop-in fuel’ that can be used neat in all engine brands and in all environments without modification. Fully compatible with current diesel infrastructure. Renewable diesel is much easier to use, as it can be used as a standalone fuel without needing to clean the tank after using mineral diesel. Most importantly, HVO100 is at least 95% carbon neutral, contributing significantly to the reduction of reportable scope 1 and 3 emissions.

In addition, biodiesel generally has poorer cold-flow properties than diesel; it can gel at low temperatures, whereas renewable diesel performs well in cold weather, often comparable to, or even better than, mineral diesel.

Both fuels reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to mineral diesel. Biodiesel reduces CO2, particulate matter, and unburned hydrocarbons, but may slightly increase NOx. Renewable Diesel, on the other hand, offers more complete combustion, reducing CO2, NOx, and particulates across the board. To NOx and indeed, CO2 equivalents, renewable Diesel is the best option.

For more information, call Steve Wilkinson on 0481 055 383 or email steve@greentechfuel.com.au 

Our website address is - www.greentechfuel.com.au