Frequently Asked Questions

What is biodiesel?

Biodiesel is a clean burning fuel, produced from soy bean oil and is a complete replacement for regular diesel fuel. 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 no major modifications. Biodiesel is simple to use, biodegradable, nontoxic and essentially free of sulfur and aromatics.

How is it made?

Biodiesel is made in a catalyzed process by mixing methanol, soy oil and sodium hydroxide. A byproduct of the reaction is glycerine which is a high value chemical used in a variety of products and chemical processes.

What can you use it for?

It can be used in anything with a diesel engine including all over the road trucks, construction equipment, agricultural equipment, diesel locomotives, ships and large boats.

Does biodiesel contribute to global warming?

No!  A benefit of biodiesel is the reduction of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. The production of biodiesel from organic oils, such as soy oil, produces a closed carbon cycle and a reduction in the net amount of carbon dioxide released into the biosphere.  According to a 1998 USDOE/USDA Study the biodiesel results in a 78% Green House Gas benefit.

Does biodiesel production consume food needed by people?

No!  Most U.S. biodiesel produced from soy oil.  Soy oil is a by-product of soybean crushing.  The primary product of soybean crushing is soy meal which is a high protein product that is used in human food products and animal feed.  Soy oil is must be hydrogenated to prevent spoiling but makes it less desirable than other vegetable oils for human consumption.  Many food processors have reformulated their products to use oils that are more healthy.

Does biodiesel have a postitive energy balance?

Yes!  Biodiesel has significant energy balance benefits.  For every unit of fossil energy used to produce biodiesel, 3.5 units of energy are gained. 2007 University of Idaho update of the USDA/DOE Study.