“I can’t think of anyone who has been more influential in the technical aspects of biodiesel use and the development of biodiesel standards than Steve Howell,” said Teresa Alleman, D02 First Vice-Chair and Quality Specialist at HF Sinclair Midstream. “His tireless efforts, and unique ability to develop a consensus among parties, that are in many cases diametrically opposed, places him in a very special group of people. The Eagle Award is one of the highest honors from ASTM, and this recognition is well-deserved.”

Howell said activity on fuel quality standards for biodiesel blends over B20 (20% biodiesel)—and the research and technical data to support them—is at an all-time high. The recent increase stems from the need to lower the total metals and phosphorus levels in B100 (100% biodiesel) to maintain support for B20 in today’s diesel engines as well as the new aftertreatment systems slated for introduction in 2027.

“Clean Fuels, the national trade association representing biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, heavily invested in the engine testing that provided the data we used to ballot a new low metals grade into ASTM D6751, the standard for biodiesel,” said Howell. “That testing showed B20 with lower metals had no adverse effects on NOx and aftertreatment systems over the full useful life of diesel engines, which is increasing to 435,000 miles.”

Efforts to maximize lifecycle carbon emission reductions using existing diesel equipment is also driving interest in higher biodiesel blends. The latest advancement, an update to the specification for fuel use in marine transportation, now covers biodiesel blends up to B100. ISO 8217:2024 was achieved through extensive collaboration between industry stakeholders and technical experts. Howell said as they continue to secure technical data for higher biodiesel blends, the task force will ballot standards covering up to B100 for all diesel applications.

Contact: Heather Buechter, 479-651-7301, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org

The post ASTM International Honors Steve Howell with Prestigious Eagle Award appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.

One of the largest fleets in North America is making big moves to meet its decarbonization goals. In 2021, multinational food and beverage company PepsiCo announced its new sustainability initiative— PepsiCo Positive. I was able to discuss their plans and implemented practices with representatives from PepsiCo and Optimus Technologies at a main stage session at the recent Clean Fuels Conference.

“It’s really about our future, and this transformation is deliberate and strategic, and it puts sustainability right at the heart of how we do what we do,” David Allen, PepsiCo’s Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer said. “It’s how we’re going to grow, how we’re going to create value, and how we’re going to ensure long term success and bring positive environmental benefits for the planet and all of its people.”

The company has set a lofty target— net zero emission by 2040. To meet these climate goals and the needs of its complex fleet, PepsiCo has employed renewable sources like alternative fuels to decarbonize and improve operational efficiency. The shift to renewable energy within all facets of the company’s owned and regulated operations, franchise endeavors, and third-party involvements could lead to a decrease of around 2.5 million metric tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by the year 2040— equivalent to the reduction to removing over half a million cars from the roads for an entire year. 

Part of PepsiCo’s plan includes energy diversification across its 80,000-asset fleet, and the solution isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer.

“We have a very diverse fleet,” Adam Buttgenbach, Director of Fleet Engineering and Sustainability with PepsiCo said. “The way that we manage and move those through our supply chain consists of everything from Class 1 through Class 8 vehicles, on highway and off-highway, yard management, material handling equipment. With that very diverse operating cycle that we have, we try to find the best solution that fits the needs of the business as well as the low carbon energy for that. For the past two decades we’ve focused on improving the efficiency of our fleet with aerodynamics, low rolling resistance, and also incorporating a lot of alternative fuels.”

While natural gas and electric vehicles are part of the solution, so are low-carbon, clean renewable fuels. PepsiCo is using renewable diesel for some of its operations in California and biodiesel in other parts of the country. The company has also partnered with Optimus Technologies for a B100 pilot project.

This project started at PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay manufacturing plant in Topeka, Kansas with 10 vehicles. They wanted to test B100’s performance in over-the-road operations that traveled in rural parts of the United States, a sector that is traditionally very hard to decarbonize. The success of that pilot project gave PepsiCo the confidence to continue building out the program. There are now several dozen trucks operating on B100 year-round out of Topeka. They are expanding this program in February to include their Wisconsin plant, with plans to scale up throughout the year with a couple hundred more trucks operating on B100.

Because most engines are not immediately equipped to use B100, PepsiCo has utilized the Optimus Technologies Vector System to convert diesel engines to run on 100% biodiesel.

“The technology provides a low-cost pathway to decarbonization that allows fleets to maintain their business resiliency and operations, because we’re never inhibiting the engine from running traditional diesel or renewable diesel,” said Optimus Technologies CEO Colin Huwyler.

Many different fleets are utilizing this technology to quickly and cost-effectively lower their emissions. Municipalities and commercial groups like PepsiCo are catching on to the here-and-now benefits of upgrading their current fleets to run on B100. 

“We need progress not perfection,” said Allen. “We need action and progress now. If we wait for a perfect solution, we won’t go anywhere, whether we’re talking biofuels, whether we’re talking agriculture, whether we’re talking any of the elements of sustainability and improvement. It’s about incrementality, then where do we go from there.”

PepsiCo hopes to not just show off their methods for meeting sustainability goals—they want to encourage and empower others to do the same.

“As we look to be a leader in the space, it’s not just ‘how do we educate and try to advance and show fleets what we are doing,’ but how do we help enable them to follow similar goals for decarbonization,” Buttgenbach said.

PepsiCo has proven that biodiesel and B100 play important roles in achieving sustainability goals and was recognized with the Clean Fuels Alliance America Inspiration Award at the Clean Fuels Conference 2024. The company is tackling environmental challenges head-on and blazing a trail for fleets to lower carbon emissions now and in the future.

The post Inspired Action: PepsiCo’s Efforts to Decarbonize North America’s Largest Private Fleet appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – On National Biodiesel Day, March 18, the clean fuels industry celebrates a milestone in renewable fuel history while honoring the legacy of Rudolf Diesel, the visionary behind the diesel engine. Diesel originally designed his engine to operate on peanut oil, recognizing the potential of vegetable oils as a renewable fuel source. His pioneering spirit continues to inspire advancements in the modern-day clean fuels industry.

Soybean oil contributed to roughly half of the feedstock for the 4 billion gallons of biodiesel and renewable diesel produced in the U.S. in 2023. The clean fuels industry uses one billion pounds of soybean oil every month, helping Clean Fuels achieve its vision of producing 6 billion gallons of biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel by 2030.

Emerging markets are increasing demand for clean fuels driving innovation in feedstock development. Winter cover crops and other annual oilseeds, such as pennycress and Brassica carinata, are being explored as alternative feedstocks to help meet rising demand. These developments signify a momentous step forward in sustainable agricultural practices as farmers introduce new crops into their rotations to contribute to renewable fuels.

“Demand is better than ever, as organizations continue to seek the lowest cost option to decarbonize using domestically produced feedstocks,” said Clean Fuels COO Doug Whitehead. “The benefits include cleaner air, economic growth for our rural communities, immediate cost savings and overall better engine performance.”

The celebration of National Biodiesel Day underscores the importance of feedstock innovation and sustainable practices within the clean fuels industry. As new markets such as rail, marine and home heating oil continue toward decarbonization, low carbon fuels including biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel will play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions now, rather than waiting for future technology.

Join us in commemorating National Biodiesel Day as we honor Rudolf Diesel’s legacy and celebrate the ongoing advancements in feedstock innovation and renewable fuels.

Materials supported by the United Soybean Board, soybean farmers and their checkoffs.

Contact: Heather Buechter, hbuechter@cleanfuels.org.

The post National Biodiesel Day: Industry Celebrates Feedstock Innovation appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.

As the world grapples with environmental challenges and seeks sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuels, biodiesel has emerged as a promising solution. Biodiesel, derived from renewable sources such as vegetable oil and animal fat, is a drop-in fuel that slashes emissions, often in heavy-duty vehicles that don’t have a realistic option to convert to electric.

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM International) first published specifications for biodiesel in 2002. In the 21 years since it was first published, the ASTM specs have been revised and republished 29 times. This reflects the biodiesel industry’s commitment to revising and tightening fuel specifications for top performance in today’s engines.

In fact, the standards for biodiesel quality are more stringent than petroleum diesel fuel quality. Currently, 23 parameters need to be tested against the biodiesel specs from ASTM versus only 15 parameters that need to be tested and confirmed for petroleum diesel. These parameters include fuel performance, cetane number and residual compounds such as monoglycerides, diglycerides and triglycerides that are left over from the production process. These high standards keep biodiesel a clean and reliable product.

To ensure the safe and effective use of biodiesel, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has continuously updated and improved its Biodiesel Handling and Use Guide. NREL recently released the sixth edition of the guide, highlighting key updates and environmental benefits while further establishing the role it plays in biodiesel use.

Before delving into the guide’s details, it’s essential for consumers to understand the significance of biodiesel in today’s energy landscape. Biodiesel is a renewable fuel that can be blended with conventional diesel fuel or used in pure form (B100) for both transportation applications and home heating systems. This guide refers to biodiesel that meets the most current ASTM International Standard D6751, a new low metals grade.

Biodiesel is high-quality. Recent studies have found that biodiesel and petroleum diesel are almost indistinguishable in terms of use and performance. After testing that included 1,000 hours of accelerated aging on diesel engines, the ash and other emissions produced by biodiesel in an engine were comparable to or less than that of petroleum diesel and can be easily removed by the emissions after-treatment systems.

Using biodiesel does not affect an engine’s warranty. Biodiesel, and all biodiesel blends, are legally registered with the EPA and can be used in today’s engines. Of course, specific conditions of use can impact the performance of any fuel.

Biodiesel significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions compared to traditional diesel fuel, making it an essential tool in mitigating climate change and improving air quality. Numerous health benefits have been studied when switching to 100% biodiesel including reduced asthma attacks, fewer cancer cases and premature deaths and an overall reduction in health care costs by reducing particulate matter emissions.

Domestically produced using a variety of feedstocks, biodiesel decreases our reliance on imported fossil fuels enhancing energy security and creating opportunities for rural communities and agriculture. Biodiesel can be used in existing diesel engines with little to no modification, making it a seamless transition for vehicle and equipment fleets.

NREL, a leader in renewable energy research and development, has been instrumental in advancing the adoption of biodiesel. The Biodiesel Handling and Use Guide is a comprehensive resource that has undergone several iterations to keep pace with technological advancements, regulatory changes and industry developments. The sixth edition of the guide is a testament to NREL’s commitment to providing factual information on biodiesel as a clean and sustainable fuel option.

The most current guide brings a host of updates and improvements, reflecting the latest knowledge and best practices in biodiesel handling and utilization. Some of the key updates in this edition include:

• Regulatory Compliance: The guide provides up-to-date information on federal and state regulations governing biodiesel, ensuring users know the latest compliance requirements.
• Fuel Quality Assurance: Biodiesel quality is essential for proper engine performance and emissions control. The guide offers fuel quality guidelines, including recommendations for storage and handling.
• Best Practices for Biodiesel Blending: As biodiesel is often blended with conventional diesel, the guide offers insights into proper blending techniques to achieve the desired blend ratio and maintain fuel stability.
• Cold Weather Operations: Biodiesel can have different cold flow properties than traditional diesel, and the guide offers strategies for handling and using biodiesel in cold climates.
• Fuel Infrastructure: For those involved in fuel distribution and storage, the guide covers the design, operation, and maintenance of biodiesel storage and dispensing facilities.
• Fleet Management: Fleet managers will find valuable information on the integration of biodiesel into their operations, including maintenance practices and engine compatibility considerations.

The guide serves as a crucial tool in promoting biodiesel across various sectors, including transportation, agriculture and industrial applications. By offering comprehensive information and guidance, it addresses many of the common concerns and challenges associated with biodiesel use, making it easier for individuals and organizations to make the transition to this sustainable fuel source.

One of the guide’s most significant contributions is its emphasis on safety. Handling and storing biodiesel require specific precautions due to its unique properties. The guide provides detailed safety recommendations to ensure users can safely and effectively work with biodiesel.

NREL’s Biodiesel Handling and Use Guide, now in its sixth edition, stands as a vital resource for anyone interested in the sustainable use of biodiesel. With its comprehensive updates, the guide addresses the evolving landscape of biodiesel regulations, technology and best practices. By providing safety, quality and efficiency in biodiesel handling and utilization, NREL plays a pivotal role in advancing the acceptance of this renewable fuel source. As we continue to seek environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional fossil fuels, the guide remains a beacon of knowledge and a catalyst for a more sustainable energy future.

Like any fuel, the quality of biodiesel depends on the entire supply chain. Biodiesel is a premium product and is held to high standards. These standards ensure top performance and lower emissions in today’s engines.

Materials supported by United Soybean Board, soybean farmers and their checkoffs.

The post Biodiesel: High Standards for A Premium Product appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.

If you’ve ever tried to start your diesel engine when temperatures are well below freezing, you’ve likely experienced the chilling sound of silence as your key turns in the ignition. This is a common scenario in the Midwest, where frigid mornings can catch even the most seasoned heavy-duty machinery operators off guard.

Whether using petroleum diesel or biodiesel, cold flow operability is one of the key challenges all diesel fuels face, especially in colder climates. While these challenges may deter you from exploring low-carbon diesel fuel alternatives like biodiesel, there are several proven solutions that allow these cleaner fuels to be used successfully as the seasons change.

Understanding cold flow operability can help biodiesel users properly maintain their equipment year-round. Cold Flow Operability refers to the ability of a fuel to flow and perform adequately in low-temperature conditions. All diesel fuels, including biodiesel, can freeze or gel as the temperature drops. If this happens, it can lead to various operational issues, including clogged fuel filters, fuel system damage and reduced engine performance.

These challenges are regularly studied by institutions such as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), and others, with support from Clean Fuels Alliance America, the national trade association that represents biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. NREL’s latest edition of the Biodiesel Handling and Use Guide outlines key low-temperature performance metrics including:

Cloud Point: Fuels contain waxes and other materials that can crystallize and separate from the fuel at low temperatures. A fuel’s cloud point is the highest temperature at which wax begins to form and small solid crystals can first be observed, giving the fuel a cloudy appearance. This is an important parameter of all diesel fuels since the presence of solidified waxes can clog filters and negatively impact engine performance. The cloud point is the most conservative measurement, down to which all fuels should still provide the expected performance.

Cold Filter Plugging Point: This measurement of fuel operability is a critical property used to measure the lowest temperature at which diesel fuel will freely flow through a standardized filtration device when cooled under certain conditions and has been correlated to light-duty engine performance. Winter operability of diesel fuel, including biodiesel, is often benchmarked by cold filter plugging point testing.

Pour Point: The pour point is the lowest temperature at which fuels can be poured or pumped. Fuels with a higher pour point may contain so many agglomerated crystals, that the fuel may not flow adequately, making it unsuitable for cold weather use. The pour point is an important indicator for distributors to determine if the fuel can be pumped, especially if temperatures are unsuitable for diesel engines.

The technical team at Clean Fuels understands the importance of cold flow operability and its challenges. Their collaboration with NREL highlights solutions that are being developed to ensure a sustainable and smooth transition for using biodiesel in the winter months. To address the challenges associated with cold flow operability, various strategies can be implemented:

Storage and Handling: In order to achieve optimal performance, it is important to protect the fuel in diesel engines from the cold by storing vehicles or equipment in an enclosed area such as a barn or garage during the winter months. If equipment, and the fuel, must be stored outside, all attempts should be made to keep the fuel clean and dry. This will help keep the fuel tank warm and improve startup.  This is often why fuel terminals and retail stations store their fuel in underground storage tanks where temperatures are more constant.

Increased Blending with No. 1 Grade Diesel: One common approach is blending biodiesel with No. 1 grade diesel, which has better cold flow properties. By blending with increased volumes and percentages of No. 1 diesel, or kerosene, the finished fuel blend will achieve improved cold-weather performance while still promoting the use of renewable fuels.

Cold Flow Additives: Specialized fuel additives can be introduced to improve the cold flow properties of diesel fuels. These additives alter the properties of the fuel to prevent gelling and wax crystallization at low temperatures. Clariant, the leading provider of cold flow additives for middle-distillate fuels, is in the final development stages of an additive that will provide the same operability that you can expect from a winterized diesel fuel even for blends up to B50 (or 50% biodiesel). It is important to note that not all cold-flow fuel additives work equally as well in all fuels. Tests should be performed to find the additive that works best with your fuel and at the correct dosage.

Seasonal Blending: Some regions practice seasonal blending, adjusting the biodiesel blend ratio according to the temperature. For example, in Minnesota, the first state to adopt a biodiesel mandate, blends of 20% biodiesel are required in the summer months, while blends are reduced to 5% in the winter and early spring.

Overcoming challenges such as cold flow operability ensures that biodiesel remains a viable and effective alternative fuel source for decarbonizing the on- and off-road transportation sectors while supporting billions of dollars in economic activity for rural America. While there are no perfect fuels for every application and season, biodiesel blends and the contributions that today’s soybean farmers make are leading to advancements in engine technologies to help reduce carbon emissions and particulate matter (soot) that improve the health of nearby neighbors and neighborhoods.

The post Cold Flow Operability: Overcoming A Chilling Challenge appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.

The post On the Road with Biodiesel appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.

The post Sample Material Safety Data Sheet for Biodiesel appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.

The post Biodiesel and Renewable Diesel: Better Together (short) appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.

The post Biodiesel and Renewable Diesel: Better Together appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.

The post Cold Flow appeared first on Clean Fuels Alliance America.