Tailpipe emissions have come under scrutiny as motorists worldwide try to reduce their carbon footprint. This goal is even more important for long-haul truckers who transport supplies around the world. These large vehicles require a lot of fuel to make their daily journeys, so many logistics companies have switched to renewable diesel. What is this fuel source and how will it benefit the planet?
Here’s what you need to know about renewable diesel.
Renewable diesel facts
Renewable diesel is a fuel with the same chemical composition as standard diesel. However, it is produced with fats and oils to make it environmentally friendly and reduce emissions. Regular diesel comes from crude oil Experts predict it will run out in the next 30 years. Renewable diesel therefore gives the automotive industry a more sustainable path forward.
Renewable diesel producers have numerous methods for making this fuel. One of the most common approaches is pyrolysis, which breaks down organic materials at high temperatures without oxygen. This gives you oil that is converted into a hydrocarbon fuel or renewable diesel.
Hydrotreating is another widespread method for renewable diesel production. This process involves bringing oils and fats to high pressure and temperature using a catalyst. Hydrotreating is likely what you will see at a renewable diesel production facility. A 2022 Cleaner Chemical Engineering Survey demonstrates the benefits of hydrotreating and how it makes Brazilian soybean oil a viable option for renewable diesel in the future.
This renewable fuel source is growing in the US and worldwide. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) says U.S. renewable diesel production should embezzles 350,000 barrels daily and reach almost 400,000 by 2025.
What are the benefits of renewable diesel?
Renewable diesel is becoming increasingly popular among transportation companies due to its sustainability. What benefits do you get from fueling a vehicle with this fuel source? Here are five benefits for drivers worldwide.
1. Increased safety
Long-distance truck drivers can travel about 600 miles dailySafety is therefore a main concern for logistics companies. Fortunately, renewable diesel makes vehicles safer because it is less flammable and less toxic than regular diesel.
If you accidentally get some on your skin, it is less serious than if you come into contact with standard diesel. In addition, the absence of oxygen ensures that sustainable diesel is less likely to freeze or exhibit algae growth during storage.
2. Less emissions
Renewable diesel is also safer for the environment because it produces fewer emissions than most fuel sources. For example, it did that reduced carbon and nitrogen oxide emissions compared to petroleum diesel.
Minimizing these harmful emissions is crucial for drivers who have to meet strict standards. Several cities and states across the country require emissions testing and smog checks, so renewable diesel could be just what you need to pass these inspections.
3. Easy compatibility
Introducing a new fuel can be a challenge when many vehicles rely on a specific source. However, renewable diesel makes the transition easy because it meets D975 specifications from ASTM International.
That is why you can use renewable diesel in today’s engines without any problems. Ease of use is one of the reasons this fuel source has become increasingly used in recent years.
4. Improved energy dependence
Making renewable diesel widespread would significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels and increase energy independence. This fuel source is easier to produce domestically and reduces dependence on imported oil for energy. Louisiana and Texas, for example, can do that make more than 1.5 billion gallons renewable diesel per year.
In addition, consumers will have easier access to renewable diesel as it is less subject to price volatility. Regular diesel fluctuates significantly based on supply and demand, supply chain disruptions and international conflicts, so a renewable source will better protect customers.
5. Less odor
Gasoline and diesel have different odors, meaning workers in many industries carry the smell when they leave work. On the other hand, renewable diesel has reduced odor because it does not contain impurities like traditional diesel.
In addition, it contains much less or no sulphur, making the odor less bothersome. Eliminating odors increases safety by preventing drivers from inhaling toxic fumes.
Driving forward with renewable diesel
Sustainability is a priority for the automotive industry, given the daily tailpipe emissions from gasoline and diesel vehicles. The transportation industry is moving forward with sustainable practices, and renewable diesel is one of the leading options.
This fuel source has a lower carbon footprint and is safer for drivers due to its low flammability. Environmentally conscious drivers around the world can expect sustainable diesel to grow significantly over the next decade.
Author biography
Oscar Collins is editor-in-chief of Modified, where he writes about health, fitness and more. Follow him on Twitter @TModded for regular updates on his work.
