Chemical and physical characteristics

Biodiesel and paraffinic diesel blends have technical differences when compared with fossil diesel. These differences affect their combustion, storage, transportation and blending limitations. HVO consists of paraffinic hydrocarbons, which is typical content for any fossil diesel. Biodiesel consists of methyl esters and it has oxygen that affects its interaction with the vehicle. Among other effects, esters improve lubricity but downgrade cold flow properties and material compatibility.

The review of technical differences between diesel, biodiesel and paraffinic diesel indicates the reasons behind technical limitations for biodiesel blending compared to paraffinic diesel (see table below). The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) has in