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5 Things You Need to Know About Making Biodiesel at Home
By Jennifer Olvera
How Biodiesel Is Made
It is possible to make your own biodiesel fuel to run in diesel engines. Biodiesel typically is made by chemically altering organic oil with the help of a catalyst and alcohol (usually methanol). Oil is heated to initiate the chemical reaction, and the oil, catalyst and alcohol are mixed and allowed to settle. Biodiesel results when a chemical reaction breaks down the oil molecule and replaces the inherent glycerin with alcohol. The biodiesel (or ester) should be at the top; in the middle is a layer of soap, while the bottom consists of glycerin. All but the top layer must then be drained off. Biodiesel is then "washed" to remove water and impurities, such as alcohol and soap. Afterwards, the biodiesel must be "dried" in containers to remove water and filtered before using.
Equipment Needed
Biodiesel can be made using common household items but may require a larger system in order to make a bigger batch. A small batch could be mixed in a 2-liter bottle, but processors can be purchased starting at $500 for larger amounts. Those interested in making biodiesel at home also can look into constructing their own processor, complete with manual or electric pumps to transfer methanol, oil, and glycerin. Numerous how-to forums can also be found online.
Biodiesel Safety and Storage
Biodiesel is a toxic chemical and therefore requires care when being prepared, handled, and stored. Thus, it's extremely important to have a fire extinguisher at hand that can put out an oil fire in the unlikely event it's needed. Biodiesel should only be made in a well ventilated area and not near children or animals. The most dangerous part of making biodiesel at home involves the use of methanol, from the time it's purchased to when it's fully introduced into the oil. Methanol itself should never be stored at home, and you should only purchase the amount you'll be using to prepare a batch of biodiesel. Always wear a mask and chemical-grade, splash-proof goggles that cover your eyes when preparing biodiesel. And remember to properly dispose of any byproduct.
Running a Car on Biodiesel
Once you've properly prepared biodiesel at home, it can be poured into to fuel tank of a diesel-powered vehicle, although many experts recommend first using commercially made biodiesel for comparative purposes. Common first impressions when using a high-ratio blend of biodiesel include reduced engine noise and a smoother engine. Other reported benefits include significantly lower tailpipe emissions, an increase in engine longevity, and reduction in maintenance because biodiesel is believed to help clean the fuel system.
There are Drawbacks
The fuel lines in older diesel engines (typically pre-1993) have been known to degrade as a result of using biodiesel – especially parts that are made of rubber. When first making the transition to biodiesel it's important to regularly inspect the fuel lines, which can leak, and replace them with biodiesel-compatible parts as needed. Other things to keep in mind are that high percentages of biodiesel can gel and clog fuel lines in cold climates, and many automakers do not extend their warranties to cover engine or fuel system problems if it's determined they are caused by biodiesel use. If your diesel vehicle is still under warranty, be sure to check first before using biodiesel unless this issue is not a concern.
Jennifer Olvera, a graduate of DePaul University in Chicago, has been writing professionally for over a decade. In addition to covering the "green scene" for publications such as Where Magazine and Crain's, she has become one of the preeminent dining, food, and entertainment writers in Chicago. She has regularly been published in Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, Zagat, Citysearch.com, and Gayot.com.
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