Storage and handling biodiesel

Whilst these considerations are important for higher concentrations of biodiesel and B100, their effects on B20 and below are significantly reduced. It is useful however as a B20 user to be aware of them, to have a better understanding of the fuel's characteristics.

Ambient external temperature

As with all diesel fuels, biodiesel will start to turn cloudy at very low temperatures. This effect is also known as waxing or gelling. Although the formation of waxes is reversed as the fuel temperature rises, their presence may lead to blocked fuel filters.

To prevent waxing of the biodiesel in storage during the winter months, it should be maintained at an appropriate temperature or blended with mineral diesel.

Cleaning effect

As a mild solvent, biodiesel has excellent cleaning properties. It will loosen and dissolve any accumulated sediment left by mineral diesel in fuel tanks, fuel lines and fuel systems whether in bulk storage or in the vehicle itself. The extent of sediment build up will depend on the age and condition of the storage tank or vehicle, but fuel filters may well clog up with these mineral diesel deposits if the fuel tanks and systems are not cleaned before using biodiesel.

The level of this cleaning effect depends on the concentration of the Biodiesel blend being used and the amount of sediment in the fuel system to start with.

These same cleaning qualities may affect paintwork and the adhesives fixing graphics or signs to a vehicle or tank, so if biodiesel is spilled, it must be wiped up immediately.

Materials compatibility

Biodiesel is compatible with seals, gaskets and adhesives found in many vehicles in use today, but may not be compatible with certain polymers and rubbers found in hoses and gaskets that typically form part of the fuel system found in older vehicles. There have not been any significant material compatibility issues with B20 however.

Fuel stability

As with diesel fuel, biodiesel has a long-term storage life, beyond which its stability may become affected. In diesel fuel terms, this is referred to as oxidation stability. Nordic produced biodiesel will include additives to ensure the fuel meets appropriate standards for oxidation stability, and be suitable for storing for a minimum "best practice" period of 6 months. As with ordinary diesel fuel, it is recommended that biodiesel should not be stored for any longer than this.

External conditions, such as water, heat and sunlight can affect the stability of the fuel. When biodiesel is stored, care must be taken to ensure all storage tanks are clean and dry (free of water) before using it for the first time.

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