There is a rising demand to find better alternatives to fossil fuels due to climate change. Biofuels are one the best alternative fuels to petroleum-based products, which are sustainable energy sources that can be derived from plant materials, algae, or animal waste.
If you’re not sure whether biodiesel or hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) is right for your business, then knowing their differences and what they are made of can help.
One of the primary goals of HVO and biodiesel is to significantly reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, since they are eco-friendly alternatives to fossil fuels. Different types of biofuels exist, and they can be made from animal fats by transesterification and hydrogenating vegetable oils to increase their stability and remove their impurities.
Recently, these alternatives have gained traction because of their possibility of promoting sustainability. As everyone is striving towards a greener future, getting fuel that’s different from the conventional type is becoming a must. Check out Syntech’s YouTube channel to learn more.
Different Types of Biofuels
Biodiesel
Biodiesel is a liquid fuel produced from waste restaurant grease, animal fats, and vegetable oils. It is also known as the ‘B100’, neat, or pure, when it’s unblended. This product is produced through catalyzed transesterification, which is a very economical process.
Biodiesel is carbon neutral without any output of CO2, and fertilizer usage is only the pollution source associated with the production of biofuels. It is highly efficient when it is used in compression-ignition systems, but its performance during winters can depend on the feedstock used.
Crops that are often used are jatropha, neem, soybean, rapeseed, and palm, and in some countries, they are sourced from industrial food producers, chip shops, and restaurants. Agricultural industries are also a great source, but utilizing raw oil can be expensive.
Pros and Cons of Biodiesel
Biodiesel is biodegradable and non-toxic, reducing the risk of soil or water contamination, and this is already a big advantage for many. It can be produced domestically, so countries are need not depend on foreign imports. With the right models, local economies can boost their revenues and enhance their overall energy sources with the help of diversifying their fuel sources.
However, it’s not all a rosy picture with biodiesel, since there are disadvantages to consider too. Its production requires a massive land area that’s only exclusive to feedstock crops. This could lead to deforestation or competition with food production if not managed sustainably.
While biodiesel performs well in warmer temperatures, it tends to solidify at lower temperatures. This can cause engine ignition issues during cold weather unless it is blended with additives or used in countries with warmer climates. Further, the infrastructure for distributing biodiesel may be limited, so without proper accessibility nationwide, widespread adoption becomes challenging.
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil
HVO comes in various blends such as in the form of a 100% concentration of pure HVO or in the ratio of 20% HVO and 80% fossil fuel. Know more about these sustainable solutions through Syntech Biofuel and determine the best option for you. It is produced under the refining technology of NEXBTL, where hydrogen is used to remove oxygen from raw materials. The result is a renewable diesel alternative that has a similar component to fossil diesel.
Greenhouse gas emissions can be significantly reduced, and the stringent processes ensure that the products are high-quality, and their integrity is maintained. This way customers would feel they are getting pure fuel that meets the company’s strict standards.
Pros and Cons of HVO Fuel
Consumers may appreciate the advantage of the hydrotreated vegetable fuel in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. When combusted, it only produce minute quantities of particulate matter and CO2, which makes it a very good option for improving public health and combating climate change.
You can also count on HVO to be compatible with the existing diesel and vehicle infrastructure. Even if the others require specialized storage facilities or engine modifications in their car, you can definitely use HVO without needing to spend more money on changes to your vehicle. The ease of adoption makes it a practical choice for fleet operators who want to reduce their environmental impact quickly.
HVO also offers excellent energy efficiency due to its higher Cetane number than regular diesel, where this excellent rating allows for more efficient combustion, which translates into better mileage per gallon and potentially lower operating costs over time.
However, there are some drawbacks associated with HVO fuel as well. One concern is the potential for increased nitrogen oxide emissions when using this type of biofuel blend. Know that these contribute to smog formation and can have detrimental effects on both human health and ecosystems if not properly managed. The production process for obtaining HVO involves hydrogenation reactions that consume large amounts of energy, and this can be challenging in some regions. See more about HVO on this page here.
Biodiesel vs HVO Fuel: Which is the Better Choice?
Now that you’ve explored the pros and cons of both biodiesel vs HVO fuel, you might be wondering which one comes out on top. Well, it’s not a simple answer. The choice between these two biofuels depends on various factors such as availability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact.
If you’re looking for a biofuel that can be easily produced from renewable resources like vegetable oils or animal fats, then the Fatty Acid Methyl Ester or biodiesel is the right choice for you. This consists of about a hundred pounds of fat that typically reacts with 10% ethanol. Feedstock is pre-treated and heated for the removal of impurities, and this can also result in lubricity features that can prevent engine wear.
On the other hand, if your priority lies in reducing greenhouse gas emissions as much as possible, then HVO fuel or green diesel might be the way to go. With its high energy density and cleaner combustion properties compared to other alternatives, HVO shows promise for significantly lowering carbon dioxide emissions.
However, it’s important to consider availability when making your decision. Biodiesel can often be found at local filling stations or even produced at small-scale facilities using waste oils. In contrast, obtaining HVO fuel may require more effort due to limited production capacity and infrastructure. Costs can also affect the overall economy since people prefer to go with more affordable alternatives.
