Biodiesel Blending

Biodiesel can be blended and used in many different concentrations with petroleum diesel depending upon the desired application.

Low Level Blends

• B5: 5% biodiesel, 95% petroleum diesel
• ASTM approved for safe operation in any compression-ignition engine designed to be operated on petroleum diesel
• Can be used in light and heavy-duty diesel cars/trucks, tractors, boats, and electrical generators

B20           

• 20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel
• Most common biodiesel blend in the US
• Good balance of cost, emissions, cold-weather performance,  and materials compatibility
• Blends at or above B20 qualify for biodiesel fuel use credits under the Energy Policy Act of 1992

B100/Neat 

• 100% biodiesel
• Can gel in cold temperatures, impact engine warranties, and suffer from microbial contamination in tanks
• Less common than B5 or B20 due to a lack of regulatory incentives and pricing
• Contains about 8% less energy per gallon than petroleum diesel

Source: US Department of Energy