Technical Paper
Fluoroelastomer Compatibility with Biodiesel Fuels
2007-10-29
2007-01-4061
Global acceptance and use of biofuels is growing rapidly in the transportation sector. Diminishing reserves of fossil fuels will continue to drive investment in sustainable biofuels. Market drivers for biofuels include a renewable supply, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and airborne pollutants, and reducing dependence on energy imports. One such fuel is biodiesel, an alternative diesel fuel produced by transesterification of vegetable oils or animal fats with alcohol, usually methanol. The use of biodiesel fuels is rapidly growing in North America, not only for the environmental and economic reasons mentioned above, but because of its inherent lubricity. EPA emission regulations now require the use of ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuels in all highway diesel engines. ULSD has inherently poor lubricity and biodiesel's superior lubricating properties can reduce wear in diesel engines fueled with blends of ULSD, thereby extending engine life and warranty.