Biodiesel and crude biodiesel are terms often used interchangeably, but it’s important to understand the distinction between the two:
Biodiesel: Biodiesel refers to a renewable fuel produced from various feedstocks, such as vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oil. It is typically obtained through a chemical process called transesterification, where the feedstock is reacted with an alcohol (usually methanol) and a catalyst. Biodiesel is a cleaner-burning alternative to petroleum diesel and can be used in diesel engines without any modifications. It is commonly designated as B100, indicating 100% biodiesel content.
Crude Biodiesel: Crude biodiesel, on the other hand, refers to a less refined or unprocessed form of biodiesel. It is essentially the product obtained after the transesterification reaction without undergoing further purification or refinement steps. Crude biodiesel may still contain impurities such as glycerin, residual alcohol, catalyst, and other contaminants. It is not suitable for direct use in engines and requires additional processing to meet the necessary quality standards.
It’s important to note that the term “crude biodiesel” is not commonly used in the industry. Biodiesel is typically produced with the intention of meeting specific quality standards and specifications before it can be used as a fuel. The production process includes purification steps, such as separation, washing, drying, and filtration, to remove impurities and ensure the final product meets industry requirements.
In summary, biodiesel refers to the refined and purified form of the renewable fuel produced through transesterification, while crude biodiesel refers to an intermediate stage in the production process that requires further refinement before it can be used as a fuel.