Methyl Esters (Biodiesel)

Biodiesel is the common name for methyl esters. Footprint ’s biodiesel is made from waste vegetable oils collected from Humboldt county kitchens. The WVO is put through a process called transesterification which breaks down the viscosity and increases the flammability of the oil. The result is a fuel that can be used in any diesel engine without engine modifications.

Pure biodiesel (B100) can be put directly into any diesel engine or can be splash blended in any ratio with petroleum diesel. Any diesel engine, including those in heavy equipment, passenger vehicles, and diesel generators can run on any ratio of biodiesel.

Biodiesel is a natural solvent and will eventually break up any deposits left in the fuel system by petroleum diesel, and will not allow further deposits to accrue. Biodiesel’s increased lubricity will extend the life of a diesel engine and will ensure the endurance of engine performance. Engines running on biodiesel will require an accelerated fuel filter maintenance schedule. Regular fuel filter service will insure proper engine performance.

The U.S. Envioronmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy recognize biodiesel to significantly reduce six of the seven criteria pollutants affecting air quality. Biodiesel is non-toxic, 100% biodegradable, safer in handling and storage than petroleum diesel and a renewable resource derived from local waste.