The new standard, D 6751-06a, adds limits on calcium and magnesium, which can be introduced during the biodiesel production process. The specification was approved at a June meeting of the ASTM Petroleum Products and Lubricants D02 committee. It was released earlier this month. The change addresses the potential effects of small levels of calcium and magnesium on diesel particulate traps, which are being introduced on diesel vehicles to reduce emissions.
“Engine manufacturers were concerned that even very small amounts of minor compounds could build up in particulate traps and eventually cause the traps to clog,” said Steve Howell, the National Biodiesel Board’s technical director and chairman of the ASTM Task Force on biodiesel standards. “The new ASTM specification addresses these concerns and demonstrates the industry’s eagerness to work with manufacturers to ensure compatibility between the equipment and the fuel.”
Earlier this year changes to the specification were made to limit sodium and potassium in biodiesel. Both elements are commonly found in biodiesel production catalysts.
Although D 6751-06a covers B100, it is expected to ensure blends up to B20 will be compatible with future emissions technology. A subcommittee vote on ASTM B20 is expected in December, according to the National Biodiesel Board. Depending on the results, final approval for biodiesel blend specifications could come as early as spring 2007.
ASTM International is the successor to the American Society for Testing and Materials.
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Dave Nilles is Online Editor for Biodiesel Magazine. Reach him at dnilles@bbibiofuels.com or (701) 373-0636.
Posted: 11:24 a.m. CDT Wednesday, October 25, 2006