We are committed to increasing the awareness and understanding of biofuels in our community, especially the younger members of the population who will one day help to shape Australia’s environmental policies.
In the near future, we hope to be involved with school groups wishing to learn more about Biodiesel and the Queensland Biodiesel group.
Biodiesel FAQs
What is biodiesel?
Biodiesel is a fuel manufactured from vegetable and animal fats and
oils.
These oils are modified through a two stage process called transesterification
to become renewable fuel. It can be used as a high quality substitute
for, or additive to, conventional petroleum derived diesel.
The most commonly used starting materials for biodiesel include canola,
soy or palm oils as well as used cooking oils or tallow.
Can biodiesel affect my diesel engine?
No, biodiesel can be used in most modern diesel engines with no modification
to the engine or fuel system and can be blended in any mix with regular
petro-diesel.
Do I need special storage facilities?
In general, the standard storage and handling procedures used for
petroleum diesel can be used for biodiesel.
What are the advantages to vehicles?
Biodiesel has many superior properties to petro-diesel fuel and has
been demonstrated to enhance engine life through its lubricating qualities
and cleaning properties.
What are the environmental benefits?
Biodiesel is a fully 'renewable' or 'green' energy source. The two
primary environmental benefits of 100% biodiesel use are a reduction
in carbon monoxide emissions by up to 50 per cent and total hydrocarbons
by up to 60 per cent when compared to fossil fuel.
100% biodiesel is also non-toxic to animal or marine life, since it
biodegrades to sugars and starches within three weeks of an accidental
spill.
The press has reported that for some alternative fuels it takes as
much energy to process the fuel as the fuel contains. What is the
energy balance of biodiesel?
For every one unit of energy needed to produce biodiesel, 3.24 units
of energy are gained.
Is biodiesel safe?
Biodiesel is 10 times less toxic than table salt, is highly biodegradable,
has a low vapour pressure, low odour, a much higher flash point than
petro-diesel and is easily and safely stored.
Is biodiesel cost competitive?
High and rising oil prices make biodiesel
more competitive, especially with excise
relief provided in a growing number of
nations.
What are the economic benefits?
Biodiesel promotes growth in rural economies through its use of agricultural
products and reduces dependence on imported fossil fuel.
Do I need special storage facilities?
The standard storage and handling procedures used for petro-diesel
can be used for biodiesel. Older equipment may require certain additional
maintenance as biodiesel is an excellent cleaning agent and solvent.
Has biodiesel been thoroughly tested?
Biodiesel has been successfully tested by government agencies, university
researchers and private industry in the United States, Canada and
Europe. Many transit authorities within these same countries have
conducted extensive tests as well.
Does Biodiesel have Government support?
Yes, Governments all over the world are increasingly supporting the
use of biodiesel. Australia, South Africa, E.U., U.S., China and India
have all strongly supported the use of biodiesel with some Governments
making its use in diesel blends compulsory.
Who is using biodiesel?
Although biodiesel can be used in any diesel engine, among the first
to switch to biodiesel include centrally fuelled fleets such as urban
buses. In the US, it is now being used in transit bus fleets, heavy-duty
truck fleets, airport shuttles, marine, national parks, military and
mining operations, as well as other state and federal fleets.
Who else can benefit from biodiesel?
The reduction of our dependence on 100%
imported fuel and the introduction of
a renewable technology benefits the entire
country. The range of benefits include:
- Growth in rural economies.
- Reduced dependence on imported fuel.
- Improvement in Australia’s balance of trade.
- Massive reduction in greenhouse emissions.
- Reduction of sulphur dioxide, one of the main causes of acid rain.
- Reduction of other cancer causing emissions such as benzene.
- Cheaper fuel.
Who can answer my questions about biodiesel?
Queensland Biodiesel is more than happy to answer your questions on
biodiesel or forward you to someone who can. Questions can be addressed
to the School Liaison Officer at info@queenslandbiodiesel.com.au.