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In the early years of antifreeze/coolants (1920s & 30s) glycerin saw some usage, but because of higher cost and weaker freeze point depression, it was not competitive with ethylene glycol. Glycerin is a by-product of the manufacture of biodiesel (fatty acid methyl esters) made by reacting natural vegetable or animal fats with methanol. Biodiesel fuel is becoming increasingly important and is expected to gain a large market share in the next several years. Regular diesel fuels blended with 2%, 5%, and 20% biodiesel are now commercially available. The large amount of glycerin generated from high volume usage of biodiesel fuel has resulted in this chemical becoming cost competitive with the glycols currently used in engine coolants. For this reason, and lower toxicity comparable to that of propylene glycol, glycerin deserves to be reconsidered as a base for antifreeze/coolant.

Coolant filters have been used for over 30 years by heavy duty engine builders but little has been published in the technical literature documenting their performance. In heavy duty cooling systems a supplemental additive package is periodically added to the system (usually at the oil drain) to prevent the coolant from becoming corrosive and to stop the build-up of deposits which cut down on heat transfer. Not only is the coolant filter the most convenient and reliable method to deliver the supplemental additive to the cooling system, it removes debris from the coolant which can cause deposits and wear, aggrevate corrosion, and even plug heat exchangers. Additionally, the used coolant filter serves as a diagnostic trouble shooting tool. The results of extensive lab and field evaluations are reported documenting the benefits of coolant filtration.