Fact #449: December 25, 2006
Biodiesel to Conventional Diesel: An Emissions Comparison
Biodiesel is a clean-burning substitute for conventional diesel fuel that can be used in today's diesel engines. An Environmental Protection Agency study shows that emissions from B100 (100% biodiesel) and B20 (20% biodiesel/80% conventional diesel) are significantly lower than from conventional petroleum-based diesel, with the exception of nitrogen oxides (NOx).
Difference in Emissions from B100 and B20 to Conventional Diesel
Supporting Information
| Emission Type | B100 | B20 |
|---|---|---|
| Emissions in relation to conventional diesel | ||
| Regulated Emissions | ||
| Total Unburned Hydrocarbons (HC) | -67% | -20% |
| Carbon Monoxide (CO) | -48% | -12% |
| Particulate Matter | -47% | -12% |
| Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) | +10% | +2% |
| Non-Regulated Emissions | ||
| Sulfates | -100% | -20%a |
| PAH (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)b | -80% | -13% |
| nPAH (Nitrated PAH's)b | -90% | -50%c |
| Ozone potential of speciated HC | -50% | -10% |
|
Source: Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Biomass Energy Data Book: Edition 1, ORNL/TM-2006/571, September 2006, p. 55. Original source: "A Comprehensive Analysis of Biodiesel Impacts on Exhaust Emissions." | ||
Return to 2006 Facts of the Week