Biodiesel properties and automotive system compatibility issues

Acceptability of biodiesel by automotive sector is limited due to some of its adverse properties such as cold flow properties, oxidation stability and corrosiveness with automotive fuel system materials. Adverse cold flow properties of biodiesel lead to the problem of plugging and gumming of filters and injectors. There is a concern about the poor oxidation stability of biodiesel, which results in the formation of sediments and gums causing problem in the engine fuel injection system. Biodiesel reacts with automotive fuel system materials adversely resulting in corrosion of metals and degradation of elastomers. Beside these adverse issues, biodiesel possesses incredible inherent lubricity.