Biodiesel Pros and Cons List

As we continue to search for more efficient forms of energy to alleviate our dependence on fossil fuels, biodiesel has become increasingly popular. Being able to create a new form of fuel from vegetable oil waste almost seems too good to be true. Biodiesel is primarily meant to be used within a standard diesel engine and while there are many benefits, there are also several drawbacks, as well. Let’s take a closer look.

List of Pros of Biodiesel

1. Decrease In Emissions
When biodiesel is used, it gives off much less carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide than other forms of fuel, which is a huge boon for the environment. Any gasses that are released during burning are the same ones that have already been absorbed from the atmosphere, making biodiesel a much safer fuel to use.

2. Engines Run Better
An engine runs much more smoothly when biodiesel is used, as opposed to petrodiesel. This is because biodiesel provides increased lubrication for the engine’s inner workings, which not only leads to a better short term performance, but also guarantees a maximized shelf life for the engine and a longer working life, as well.

3. Efficient Combustion
Of all related fuels, biodiesel is considered to be the easiest to ignite, especially as compared to petrodiesel. Since it is easier to light, biodiesel fuel is able to experience a more complete combustion than its counterparts. It also burns more efficiently than other fuels, allowing an engine to function at peak capacity.

List of Cons of Biodiesel

1. Increased Cost Of Production
One of the main drawbacks to the usage of biodiesel is the fact that it costs extra to produce. Creating a new form of fuel out of vegetable oil and animal fat is predictably expensive. Not only are prices typically high for biodiesel, but availability is also scarce in many regions. The exclusivity factor contributes to the higher costs.

2. Doesn’t Work For All Countries
While biodiesel may work very well in heavily populated countries that are well developed and have the ability to grow additional crops to support its production, the reality is that developing countries are not always able to do so. Dedicating valuable space and time to growing crops to produce biodiesel fuel takes away from the amount of food that a smaller nation is able to grow and feed to its population.

3. Good Quality Is Hard To Come By
High quality biodiesel is very difficult to manufacture and many have tried and failed to produce their own. Creating biodiesel that meets all of the attendant industry regulations is challenging, due to the fact that water and certain impurities are unable to be removed during the process of refining the fuel and washing it.