BioDiesel
- Starting July 1, 2011 all diesel fuel and home heating fuel in Canada will contain 2% biodiesel. View the Environment Canada press release…
- 2% biodiesel in heating oil will prolong the life of your heating system due to its increased solvent and lubrication properties, while helping the environment at the same time.
- 2% biodiesel in all diesel fuel will substantially increase the lubrication properties, which can significantly prolong the life of your engine, while lowering emissions.
What is biodiesel?
Biodiesel is the name of a clean burning alternative fuel, produced from domestic, renewable resources. Biodiesel contains no petroleum, but it can be blended at any level with petroleum diesel to create a biodiesel blend. It can be used in compression-ignition (diesel) engines with little or no modifications. Biodiesel is simple to use, biodegradable, nontoxic, and essentially free of sulfur and aromatics.
How is biodiesel made?
Biodiesel is made through a chemical process called transesterification whereby the glycerin is separated from the fat or vegetable oil. The process leaves behind two products -- methyl esters (the chemical name for biodiesel) and glycerin (a valuable byproduct usually sold to be used in soaps and other products).
Why is biodiesel important?
Biodiesel is better for the environment because it is made from renewable resources and has lower emissions compared to petroleum diesel. Also, because it’s made from plant material the plants absorb greenhouse gases while they grow. It is less toxic than table salt and biodegrades as fast as sugar. Since it is made in Canada from renewable resources such as soybeans and canola, its use decreases our dependence on foreign oil and contributes to our own economy.