Some environmentalists are not happy with the deal because they're afraid it could stall conversion of fleets to much-cleaner natural gas, not to mention the fact that 80 percent petroleum is not exactly what you would call totally environmentally friendly. It is currently suitable only for trucks, buses or other heavy equipment. The use of biodiesel in a conventional diesel engine results in substantial reduction of unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. Emissions of nitrogen oxides are either slightly reduced or slightly increased depending on the duty cycle and testing methods. Fuel mileage, engine performance and wear and drivability with biodiesel blends were similar to conventional diesel, but the exhaust odor was less offensive.
Cost depends on the market price of diesel and vegetable oil.
Biodiesel would certainly help soybean farmers. In the meantime, I'm still waiting for the easy environmental problem, but I guess I won't be driving around on fry juice any time soon. All Rights Reserved Talk Back Let us know what you think about this story in ENN's Forum Discussion Area.