How is biodiesel made?
Biodiesel is made through a chemical process called transesterification whereby the glycerin is separated from the fat or vegetable oil. The process leaves behind two products – methyl esters (the chemical name for biodiesel) and glycerin (a valuable byproduct usually sold to be used in soaps and other products).

Why should I use biodiesel?
Biodiesel is better for the environment because it is made from renewable resources and has lower emissions compared to petroleum diesel. It is less toxic than table salt and biodegrades as fast as sugar. Since it is made in the USA from renewable resources such as soybeans, its use decreases our dependence on foreign oil and contributes to our own economy.

History
August 10, 1893 Rudolf Diesel’s prime model a single 10 (3 m) foot iron cylinder with a flywheel at its base, ran on its own power for the first time in Augsburg, Germany on August 10, 1893. In remembrance of this event, August 10 has been declared International Biodiesel Day. Diesel later demonstrated his engine at the world fair in Paris, France in 1898. This engine stood as an example of Diesel’s vision because it was powered by peanut oil-a biofuel. He believed that the utilization of a biomass fuel was the real future of his engine.

Biodiesel is “user-friendly.”
The use of biodiesel and biodiesel blends results in a noticeable change in exhaust odor. The reduction in smell and change of odor are easier on a ship workers and pleasure craft boaters. In fact, it’s been compared to the smell of French fries. Users also report not having eye irritation. Since biodiesel is oxygenated, diesel engines have more complete combustion than with petroleum.