BioDiesel Please!

  BioDiesel Basics-  BioDiesel is created by a process called transesterification. The process removes the glyceride from a triglyceride chain(better known as vegetable oil or animal fat) and replaces it for each individual finger of the chain with a molecule of Methanol. Thus creating a Fatty Acid Methyl Ester(FAME) or biodiesel. 

   While the basic process and recipe for making Biodiesel remains constant there can be variations. Biodiesel can be made at home but keep in mind that any fuels used on the roads in the US have to meet a particular ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) specification. There is also tax implications which should be researched. Home batches of Biodiesel are best used for off road application such as in tractors, generators, and heavy equipment. Biodiesel is typically referred to as a displacement fuel meaning it will displace the use of petro-deisel. Biodiesel is typically blended in various percentages with petroleum diesel though many people use B100 or 100% biodiesel in their engines.

Benefits of using biodiesel- Biodiesel can be made locally. Biodiesel can be made using a renewable resource. Biodiesel can be used in any diesel engine with no modifications though some engines are better suited then others. Biodiesel has a natural lubricating property which will help extend engine life and reduce friction. Biodiesel is a solvent so it will clean out the deposits left by petroleum products. Biodiesel reduces emission of hydrocarbons.

Things to keep in mind- Not all biodiesel is created equally. Creating biodiesel sustainably is an important consideration- for a great definition of sustainable biodiesel click here. Biodiesel is a solvent and will clean out the deposits left from petrol-diesel at the expense of more frequent fuel filter changes. Biodiesel can be harder to use in cold climates due to the viscosity of the fuel.

For more information refer to the Sustainable Biodiesel Alliance website.



is currently looking for support and sponsors to help offset the production costs of the documentary series “BioDiesel Please!”

   The film series takes a beginners look at the BioDiesel Industry through the eyes of 2B Enterprises’s founder, Byron Banghart. 

   In the episodes to come, Byron will find a local source of BioDiesel in his home town of Baltimore, Maryland, interview people on the street to test their knowledge of biodiesel, try refining biodiesel for himself, and continue his travels around the US exploring the industry.

   Any contributions to this project would help us provide this series as a public service and would be greatly appreciated.



"Biodiesel Please!"- the series. from Byron Banghart 2b4theWorld.com on Vimeo.