Biodiesel
-It is methyl or ethyl ester of a fatty acid produced from vegetable oil of edible or non edible types or animal fat or algae, by transesterification process using catalysts.
-Has better lubricating properties and much higher cetane ratings than today's low sulfur diesel fuels.
-Its addition reduces the fuel system wear.
-Can be used in the pure form (B100), or may be blended with petroleum diesel in any concentration in most diesel engines for transportation purpose.
-But, the engine may face problems, such as low temperature operation, less durability and drop in power. New diesel fuel injection systems, such as common rail systems are equipped with materials that are compatible with biodiesel (B100).
-Biodiesel offers a substantial reduction in particulate matter (25%-50%) and a marginal increase of NOx (1%-6% when it is used as an alternative fuel in a CI engine.
The major problems associated with biodiesel are
(i) poor oxidation stability,
(ii) higher viscosity and density,
(iii) lower calorific value, and
(iv) cold flow property. -Blends of 20% and lower biodiesel can be used in diesel engines with no, or only minor modifications.
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