Biodiesel is an environmentally friendly alternative diesel fuel that is derived from renewable resources such as vegetable oils and animal fats. Its rapid growth in recent years, especially with its use in blends with petroleum diesel of B2, B5 to B20, has found use in both off-road and on-road applications.

Along with the many environmental benefits of using biodiesel, such as reduced emissions, biodiesel also provides the prospect of energy security, by decreasing the dependence of imported petroleum, as well as economic benefits, by providing new outlets for domestic agricultural products. Feedstocks that are being used to produce biodiesel, which have traditionally been rapeseed oil and soybean oil, have now broadened to include a variety of other feedstocks such as recycled cooking oil, jatropha and many more.

As with many products, especially those based on natural substances, biodiesel is susceptible to oxidative and thermal degradation. To help ensure that the quality of the fuel is maintained during storage, handling and use, the industry has established several quality parameters for biodiesel, such as those defined in standards such as ASTM D6751 and European Standard EN 14214.

Ciba has developed a range of additives and stabilizers that can be tailored to a variety of feedstock based biodiesel.  These additives can help control critical parameters such as oxidative stability (EN 14112), acid number and peroxide content.

If you would like to discuss your specific needs or would like additional information please contact us.

Ciba would like work with you to ensure that biodiesel continues to develop as a viable alternative fuel and to help you ensure quality and consistency in the products that you deliver.