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What are Biofuels?
Biofuels are a form of renewable energy derived from biomass-based products. There are two main forms: bioethanol and Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME). Bioethanol is produced from the distillation of sugar beet. FAME is produced by extracting vegetable oil from a variety of plants and reacting with methanol. It is then purified to produce a non-toxic, high specification biodegradable fuel. Currently, both Bioethanol and FAME are blended with gasoline and diesel to make biofuels, which can be used in unmodified engines.
Benefits of Biofuels and Legislation
The use of biofuels in conventional combustion engines will have a positive environmental impact, helping to reduce greenhouse gases and meet global Kyoto targets. Particulate matter and Sulphur Oxides (SOX), a major component of acid rain, will also be significantly reduced.
European Union (EU) countries have signed up to the Renewable Fuels Directive, which set targets for the introduction of biofuels to reduce the current dependence on petroleum products. Fuels are currently required to meet EN228 and EN590 quality standards, both of which allow Bioethanol and FAME to be blended into conventional fuels. Rising oil prices, improved technology and other incentives ensure biofuels are cost competitive, maintain fuel quality and adhere to legislative requirements. As more of us attempt to reduce our carbon footprint and become carbon neutral, biofuels will play an increasing role in our lives.
SGS and the Biofuel Industry
In response to the growth of the biofuels market, SGS Oil, Gas and Chemicals have developed technical expertise, with a global network providing state-of-the-art laboratory services, offering tailored services to all aspects of the biofuel supply chain, including testing of raw biomass products, process optimisation and testing. SGS can even offer emissions trading certification.
What Can SGS Provide?
- Certification of biofuel components to ASTM D6751and EN 14214;
- Certification of gasoline and diesel to EN228 and EN590;
- United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) 17025 accredited laboratories.
- Inspection/verification of raw biomass products;
- Quantification and characterization of biofuel components in mineral fuels;
- Microbiological analysis;
- Process optimisation and by-product testing;
- Additive dosing and process treatments to improve product quality;
- Flow improvers, biocides and antioxidants;
- UREA (ammonia) and chemical additives used in exhaust emission systems;
- Technical and consultancy services for logistics, distribution and supply chain issues.
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