How is biodiesel used today?
In the United States, biodiesel is used as both a pure fuel (B100) and as a blend with conventional petroleum-based diesel fuel (petrodiesel). There are three primary biodiesel applications today, each of a differing concentration of biodiesel and for different purposes. The most common use is as a 20% blend with petrodiesel (B20) in order to comply with the Energy Policy Act (EPACT). Another primary use is as a pure fuel (B100) in environmentally sensitive areas (wetlands, national parks) or enclosed areas (warehouses, underground mines). A third use is as a blending stock (levels are 5% or below) as a lubricity-enhancing component of a premium diesel formulation. Biodiesel can be used anywhere conventional diesel fuel is used. As the word on biodiesel spreads, new applications are springing up every day.
