Engine makers hardly 'singing praises' over biodiesel

Diesel Fuel News, Nov 11, 2002

Government policy makers "should not mandate the use of biodiesel fuel," Engine Manufacturers Association (EMA) told U.S. EPA's mobile sources technical review advisory subcommittee meeting last month. While biodiesel might help reduce particulate matter (PM), it also increases nitrogen oxides (NOx), EMA noted.

Government and industry must objectively determine the impact of biodiesel or blends on their ability to meet diesel emissions standards, the impact on exhaust aftertreatment systems, engine certification, in-use emissions compliance, and public health effects, EMA warns. While blends of up to 5% are "generally OK" for engine components, higher percentages need more evaluation. Impact of biodiesel blend on fuel long-term stability, cold-weather operation and biological growth are other issues, EMA told the EPA advisory panel.