Education
Here you can explore and learn about the world of biodiesel, soybeans and soybean meal and their impact on the world.
Biodiesel
Ticks of Approval
See the fast facts of using Soybiodiesel® B100
Cold Flow Properties
One of the most important measures of a biodiesel's quality is how well it performs in cold weather. The measure of such a parameter is known as the Cold Filter Plugging Point or CFPP (ºC) and is defined as the lowest temperature at which fuel will still flow through a specific filter. The lower this value, the better the fuel performs in cold weather.
Energy Yield
Perhaps the most important measure of any renewable fuel is its Energy Yield. This is how much energy you get out of a fuel versus how much fossil energy you need to put in to create it. To truly measure the Energy Yield of a fuel, a complete "LIfe-Cycle Analysis" must be taken, which considers all aspects in the production of a fuel, from the ground to the pump.
Energy yield Comparison of Different Kinds of Fuel
Cetane Number
The Cetane Number (CN) is the measure of the combustion quality of a diesel fuel and is important for ensuring adequate performance from the fuel. A higher Cetane Number is desirable, however no significant impact is felt for Cetane Numbers above 50, in fact because the Cetane Number for mineral diesel in Australia is 46, any substantial deviation from this value is undesirable as a change to ignition timing would be required for correct operational performance.
Cetane Number Comparison of Biodiesel from Different Feedstocks
Emissions
Biodiesel has long been recognised for its emission reduction capabilities when compared with mineral diesel. 100% Biodiesel, or B100 has substantial emission reductions for Carbon Dioxide, Particulate Matter, Volatile Organic Compounds, Carbon Monoxide and Greenhouse Gases overall, with a slight increase in NOx emissions.
Lubricity
As mentioned in the Biodiesel Products Page one benefit of using soy-based Biodiesel over conventional fossil diesel is an increase in lubricity. This means less wear on the engine's moving parts, and as a result, less money spent on servicing. Click below to read a study showing the beneficial effects to lubricity of using Biodiesel in an engine.
Lubricity Additive Study Results
How is Biodiesel made?
Biodiesel is made via a series of steps, which on their own are quite simple, but performing them on a large-scale, continuous manufacturing level requires a complex design to ensure the best quality Biodiesel is formed. Click below to view a large version of the steps involved in taking a quality feedstock such as Soybean Oil and turning it into Biodiesel.
Biodiesel Process Description
