CTA Partners with Government to Advance Research on Renewable Diesel

CTA has partnered with the Government of Canada and several energy and transportation organizations to advance research on the storage and use of heating and transportation fuel containing biodiesel.  The research program was designed to enhance understanding of the technical issues related to renewable diesel use.

The study, funded by the Government of Canada’s National Renewable Diesel Demonstration Initiative and industry partners, formulated guidelines that can help assure biodiesel product quality and reliability, including:

• Up to 10 per cent biodiesel content in heating oil should not cause furnace performance issues
• Limiting the level of saturated monoglycerides in biodiesel helps maintain adequate fuel flow.  This is particularly important for low-temperature storage and for operation of both furnaces and motor vehicles.
• The use of antioxidants when storing biodiesel over the long term can be used to assure product stability

The research studied appropriate applications for renewable diesel, developed guidelines for regional and/or seasonal blends and provided information for standard setting bodies to set specifications that will ensure fuel products are fit for service.  Of particular importance to CTA is that renewable diesel is compatible with truck engines and does not hinder engine performance during harsh winter weather. 

CTA continues to be involved in the study of renewable diesel and its potential impact on the trucking industry.  For a copy of this report, please visit www.cppi.ca.