Biodiesel or methyl ester is produced through the trans-esterfication process by combining alcohol, fats or seed plant oils and a catalyst to produce a cleaner, renewable fuel product. The production of petroleum based diesel fuel results in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other emissions to the atmosphere. Petroleum based diesel fuel also uses more energy during production than biodiesel. When 100% Biodiesel is utilized the emission profile is much improved over petroleum based diesel, even when used as a B20 blend. (80% petroleum diesel and 20% biodiesel) Chart 1.

Biodiesel fuel is being used in Europe and in the United States in all applications including marine diesel engines. Biodiesel is biodegradable and is more compatible with environmentally sensitive waters and aquatic life. Using SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction), particulate matter filters (PM),Cetane improvers, and NOX trap reduction technologies, the use of higher percentage blends of Biodiesel will increase. Biodiesel contains NO sulfur. Sulfur found in petroleum based diesel fuel degrades the performance of SCR, and Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) emission systems. In order to apply NOX adsorber technology to diesel engines, it is imperative that low-sulfur diesel or no-sulfur Biodiesel fuels be available. 100% Biodiesel fuel used in more on-road and off-road diesels results in a significant reduction of emission from any diesel engine.

FUEL STANDARDS CHART

EMISSION PROFILE CHART

Worldwide Germany, France, England and other European countries are leading producers of Biodiesel fuel. Biodiesel is recommended by diesel injector manufactures because of its high lubricity value. Low-sulfur petroleum diesel has much lower lubricity value than Biodiesel. Improved fuel system lubrication results in fewer fuel injector and fuel pump failures. The use of Biodiesel helps reduce our dependence on foreign petroleum products and stimulates the U.S. agriculture industry.

BLENDING CHART
(Chart Provided by Our Soybean Checkoff)

ETHANOL FUEL-

Ethanol is produced from any grain crop through the distillation process or biomass conversion. Corn is converted into a clean, renewable alcohol based automotive fuel. Ethanol is a hydrogen-rich liquid that can be utilized in fuel cells. E-85 is blend of regular gasoline and ethanol (85% ethanol 15% gasoline) and is being sold in many states. When blended with gasoline ethanol (E-85) helps improve combustion, engine performance and reduces emissions. Because of environmental concerns ethanol is replacing MTBE in across the U.S. Brazil is the world leader in the production and use of ethanol as a clean, renewable transportation fuel. Flex-Fuel Vehicles are available from most major US car manufactures nationwide.