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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Peoria, Illinois » National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research » Bio-oils Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #305590
Title: Cold flow properties of biodiesel: A guide to getting an accurate analysis

Author
item Dunn, Robert

Submitted to: Biofuels
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: 5/21/2015
Publication Date: 12/2/2015
Citation: Dunn, R.O. 2015. Cold flow properties of biodiesel: A guide to getting an accurate analysis. Biofuels. 6(1-2):115-128. doi: 10.1080/17597269.2015.1057791.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Biodiesel has several advantages compared to conventional diesel fuel (petrodiesel). Nevertheless, biodiesel has poor cold flow properties that may restrict its use in moderate climates. It is essential that the cold flow properties of biodiesel and its blends with petrodiesel be measured as accurately as possible. This work provides an overview of the important cold flow properties and how they are analyzed. The utility of cloud point (CP), pour point (PP), and cold filter plugging point (CFPP) in evaluating biodiesel at low temperatures is discussed. Advantages and limitations of the experimental methods are evaluated. Finally, the use of sub-ambient differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in the study of low temperature phase behavior of biodiesel is examined.