ASTM D6751

The ASTM standard for production of biodiesel.

B20

B20 is the blend of biodiesel that ASTM International has standardized for all vehicles. B20 is safe for your vehicle and reduces harmful emissions. It reduces emissions because B20 contains more oxygen than diesel of similar volume. This increased presence leads to a reduction in emissions of hydrocarbons and toxic compounds and carbon monoxide. In addition, compared to diesel?, the exhaust emissions from biodiesel are almost entirely free of sulfur oxides and sulfates, the major component in acid rain.

Despite its substantial overall emissions improvements, B20 is under scrutiny for its NOx? emissions. No findings have been conclusive: some studies conclude a slight increase in NOx, some a decrease, some none at all.

Nevertheless, B20 has shown significant environmental benefits with minimal increase in cost for consumers.

This fuel possesses advantages and limitations:

Advantages

• Renewable, domestic energy resource
• Over 300% more fossil-fuel energy efficient than diesel
• Can be used in most diesel engines
• Can reduce global warming and tailpipe emissions
• Nontoxic and biodegradable
• Good solvent for fuel line and tank sediments

Limitations

• Can contain as much as 8% less energy per gallon, depending on the feedstock
• Gels at higher temperatures than petroleum diesel
• Not compatible with some older fuel systems
• Not compatible with some metals and plastics

See also: ASTM, Aviation Fuels ASTM Standards