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
