Biodiesel is a biofuel that is obtained from vegetable oils or animal fats.
A biodiesel is a biofuel that is used as a replacement for diesel , a fuel also known as diesel or gasoil . It is a substance that is produced using animal fats or oils of vegetable origin that are subjected to different industrial processes.
Biodiesel is usually mixed with diesel that comes from petroleum . This combination can be made in different quantities. B100 is pure biodiesel (or 100% biodiesel). On the other hand, depending on the percentage of biodiesel in the mixture, we can talk about B50 , B15 , etc.
Advantages of biodiesel
Since biodiesel is less polluting than those that come from petroleum, there are many campaigns that recommend its use to fuel various types of engines, among which automobile engines stand out.
Furthermore, fuels from hydrocarbons are not renewable : that is, they can be exhausted. On the other hand, biodiesel made from vegetable oils can be renewed through new plantations.
The sources of biodiesel are renewable.
Its disadvantages
In any case, the increase in the use of biodiesel also generates conflictive situations. When land is used to grow the plants that make it possible to obtain this biofuel, deforestation processes usually develop.
On the other hand, the replacement of crops for food purposes causes the price of food to increase, since there is less supply.
Compatibility of biodiesel with different materials
Regarding the compatibility of biodiesel with different materials , it can be mentioned that this substance generates the decomposition of natural rubber and affects products made with copper, cast iron, lead, tin and zinc.
Instead, it is compatible with aluminum, stainless steel and high-density polyethylene.
home production
For years, many people have chosen to prepare this type of fuel in their homes, in an attempt to make the most of their resources and save money. The procedure is relatively simple, although it should be noted that the main difficulty lies in obtaining a volume of biodiesel that allows us to use our vehicle normally.
Before starting, it is important to take certain precautions:
- Since methane has a high level of toxicity, which can affect us both by touching it and breathing it, it is necessary to wear a mask, glasses, gloves and an apron at all times.
- Protect the skin from contact with sodium hydroxide, as it is dangerously corrosive and can cause burns. Throughout the biodiesel manufacturing process, it combines with methanol and forms sodium methoxide, another corrosive substance.
- To minimize the concentration of toxic vapors, we must work in a properly ventilated area.
- Having a water faucet on hand is another necessity, to be able to wash the skin correctly if it comes into contact with any chemical product.
- Another point that we should prioritize is the protection of minors and animals. To avoid accidents, it is recommended not to allow them access to the workplace.
The necessary materials are: vegetable oil (new or used); methanol (also called methyl alcohol); sodium hydroxide; glass container; thermometer; funnel; and plastic bottles.
Let's see the steps to make homemade biodiesel:
- Pour 250 ml of methanol into the glass container, along with one and a half tablespoons of sodium hydroxide.
- Cover and shake until the sodium hydroxide has dissolved (the lid should not be aluminum).
- Add 4 cups of oil and heat to 60°C.
- Using the funnel , pour the oil and the previous mixture into a bottle.
- Cover and shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
It is advisable to wait a few days before using homemade biodiesel, especially until the glycerin has settled, a phenomenon that can be noticed as the color becomes lighter.