Cold flow properties of biodiesel: a guide to getting an accurate analysis

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.

Keywords:

• cloud point
• cold filter plugging point
• differential scanning calorimetry
• low-temperature flow test
• pour point

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported as in-house research conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Notes on contributors

Robert O. Dunn

Dr. Robert Ovington Dunn, Jr. serves as a senior research scientist with the Bio-Oils research (BOR) group at the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research (NCAUR) in Peoria, IL. The BOR group conducts basic and applied research to expand domestic use of products made from vegetable oils and their derivatives. Dr. Dunn's research largely focuses on development of biodiesel, a renewable alternative fuel extender for on-road and aviation applications that is made from soybean oil. Dr. Dunn earned a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Oklahoma in 1987. From 1987–1988, he held a post-doctorate appointment with Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) performing research at the Morgantown Energy Technology Center (METC) in Morgantown, WV. Since 1988, he has worked at NCAUR conducting studies to improve properties and performance of vegetable oil-based alternative fuels, bio-lubricants, and other bio-based products. Dr. Dunn has authored or co-authored 76 published manuscripts including 23 book chapters and review articles. Dr. Dunn has delivered 71 oral and poster presentations, including 32 invited presentations. Dr. Dunn has chaired 15 technical sessions including four at international conferences.