Biodiesel - The Next Alternative Fuel

contributed by Joseph Then

With increasing prices in gasoline/petrol, we seem to see a revolution in the industry to find alternative solutions. Most drivers want something better than the conventional fuel. The majority want a cleaner and safer fuel. Also, they want fuel that is cheaper.

There has been a range of alternative fuel sources introduced and some of the alternatives are embraced by a huge group of drivers. Biodiesel is one of the fuels that is in this category. Biodiesel offers the general public a good fuel alternative.

Biodiesel is Different

One nice feature that makes Biodiesel so different from the other alternatives out there is that you do not need to buy a new car or even modify your car so that you can use Biodiesel. If you have been using diesel as fuel then you can Biodiesel.

It is very different from regular diesel fuel, but it's always something good. Biodiesel burns like any other diesel fuel which is the main reason why you can use it in your car engine without modifying. In addition, Biodiesel is proven to burn cleaner, so your engine will experience lesser wear and tear. Plus, it creates lesser pollution. Biodiesel is also safer with less chance of explosion or fire.

Variety - Blends of Biodiesel

Today, most of the Biodiesel sold in the market are blended versions. What this means is that Biodiesel and regular diesel are mixed at various levels. The reason why it is done that way is because Biodiesel at its purest form does not perform well with traditional rubber parts found in vehicles. Hoses and other rubber parts wear down over time with consistent use of Biodiesel. Mixing Biodiesel and regular diesel into a blend will help to rectify this common issue.

B100 (ie. 100% Biodiesel) is non-blended Biodiesel is also sold commercially. For those who have upgraded their fuel system not to include rubber parts will get the best benefit from using pure Biodiesel. However, take note that a mixed Biodiesel is still better than straight diesel fuel and it can be used in any diesel car safely.

Fabricated Facts of Biodiesel

There are quite a few myths about Biodiesel that make people question the usability. The common issue of Biodiesel breaking down rubber parts of the engine is not really that huge of a deal. It is pretty cheap when it comes to replacing the rubber parts compared to the problems that may arise from using regular diesel. Biodiesel is much cleaner and so general wear and tear is greatly reduced. That means less service and maintenance to your vehicle.

People are starting to see that Biodiesel wins hand down. Despite all the criticism and negative reports, Biodiesel has proven itself as the diesel fuel alternative for all drivers.

About the Author:

Joseph Then is the author of "How to Make Your Own Biodiesel" available here.