Biodiesel is chemically known as “fatty acid mono-alkyl ester”. This is a technical way of saying it's a product made from organic oil or animal fats with all the sticky stuff removed. Biodiesel is a quality, clean burning alternative fuel made from renewable resources here in the USA! Biodiesel can be blended in any percentage with petroleum diesel to make a blend. Biodiesel has comparable torque and horsepower as traditional diesel but with better lubrication quality and much lower emissions.

Biodiesel is made by chemically changing organic oil or animal fats by using a catalyst and an alcohol, usually Methanol. The chemical reaction that occurs through this process is called Transesterification which breaks down the glycerin part of the oil molecules and replaces them with alcohol molecules. The glycerin being heavier then falls to the bottom and is drained off leaving you guest it Biodiesel.

Biodiesel is then typically washed to remove any impurities and dried to remove any residual water from the washing process. Note: Biodiesel used in older model vehicles that still employ rubber fuel lines will need to be upgraded as the Biodiesel will eventually dissolve them due to the strong solvent properties of biodiesel. You will also need to change the fuel filter a coupe of times as Biodiesel will remove any old deposits remaining from old fossil fuels.

Precautions:

BE SAFE WHEN MAKING BIODIESEL.

When making Biodiesel, it's important to be safe. Why you ask? You are dealing with several toxic chemicals. Methanol is extremely flammable as well as poisonous and Lye is highly corrosive and an inhalation hazard. The transferring and mixing of flammable liquids and caustics can raise the risk in handling and there is a potential to seriously hurt, injure, and even kill yourself and others. This site and its contributors will not be held responsible for any injury, death, or destruction of property that occurs while attempting to make Biodiesel. Always use the proper safety equipment.

Biodiesel should always be made in a well ventilated area, away from children and pets with the proper safety equipment utilized.

Before making batches of Biodiesel, check with your local municipality and fire marshall to ensure that any chemicals, alcohol, or other substances you will use are being stored and used within the proper laws and ordinances for your area. Some areas refer back to state and federal fire codes. It's always a good idea to check before you get started.

Using Biodiesel in a diesel engine may void some manufacturer's warranties. Although the steps outlined here are sound and have been tested in several thousands of vehicles all over the world, there's no guarantee your engine manufacturer will honor your warranty. Biodiesel is considered a fuel, so if you plan to use it in a vehicle for on-road use, it may be subject to taxes. Check with your state and federal taxing agencies if in question.

Biodiesel itself, when properly made, is quite safe. It's less toxic than table salt and degrades faster than sugar. It has a higher flash point than regular diesel and if spilled is not considered toxic.