PSU academic reassures public on biodiesel use: safe for engines and helps reduce global warming
Dr. Songtham Photthawon, Director of the Research and Development Institute for Palm Oil and Oil Crops-Based Renewable Energy at Prince of Songkla University, said biodiesel can be used with various types of diesel engines. He explained that biodiesel is a fuel derived from plants or animal-based sources that has been chemically modified so it can be used in diesel engines.
He noted that one of its key advantages is that it is a renewable energy source and can be blended with diesel at any ratio. In fact, diesel currently sold at fuel stations already contains biodiesel, depending on the blend. At present, B7 is commonly used, meaning it contains 7 percent biodiesel and the rest is conventional diesel. There are also plans to promote B20 for trucks and large vehicles. In terms of fuel consumption, he said drivers are unlikely to notice any significant difference when biodiesel is blended with diesel at levels of 10 to 20 percent.
Dr. Songtham added that blending biodiesel with diesel can improve combustion efficiency, resulting in cleaner combustion and lower air pollution. He acknowledged that for most consumers, fuel price remains the main factor in deciding which fuel to use. However, he emphasized that on a global scale, one of biodiesel’s major benefits is its potential to help reduce global warming.
Because biodiesel is produced from plants, and plants absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, the process forms a more complete carbon cycle. By contrast, burning fossil fuels such as petroleum releases additional carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, increasing greenhouse gas emissions.
At the national level, he said biodiesel can help reduce dependence on imported fuel by promoting the use of energy produced domestically. This contributes to greater energy self-reliance for the country.
At the community level, used cooking oil and other vegetable oils can also be processed into biodiesel. This helps keep money circulating within local communities and creates added value that may not always be immediately visible.
Dr. Songtham advised that, in addition to considering fuel prices, members of the public should also consult their vehicle manuals to ensure their engines are compatible with the type of biodiesel blend being used, whether B7, B10, or B20.
In closing, he reiterated that biodiesel can be blended with diesel in all proportions. However, for those considering the use of B100, or pure biodiesel, he stressed that the fuel must come from a certified and standardized producer. Otherwise, it may cause problems for the engine.
He also said that the Research and Development Institute for Palm Oil and Oil Crops-Based Renewable Energy at Prince of Songkla University is ready to support communities interested in reviving biodiesel production and is willing to provide assistance where needed.
At present, the institute is in the process of restoring its production system after biodiesel production was suspended for around three years due to a shortage of raw materials. Efforts are now underway to bring the system back into operation, with production expected to resume in April. The institute uses used cooking oil as a raw material for biodiesel production and will also open purchases to the general public.