Biofuels
Automotive engines aren’t just undergoing a radical shift from electric vehicles, biofuels represent another challenge entirely and require different types of fuel monitoring.
Biofuels and e-fuels are becoming viable options in the pursuit of decarbonisation. Alternative fuels emit less carbon throughout their lifecycle than fossil fuels. Crucially, it is possible to integrate biofuels into existing combustion engines in road, aviation, and maritime transport, provide immediate decarbonisation, and blend them with conventional fuels.
Therefore, cleaner fuel types offer a vital means to decarbonise transportation in the short term while longer-term solutions are developed.
However, alternative fuels have rigorous testing requirements that must be carefully followed to identify the presence of any contaminants and ensure operational efficiency for engines.
How hydrocarbon compatibility can create cleaner fuels
Biofuels that are most prevalent within the current market include bioethanol, biodiesel, renewable diesel, biomethanol, and sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). These fuels are largely generated through the processing of biomass such as starch of grains, vegetable oils, animal fats, waste oils, and greases.
Despite the many advantages, most alternative fuels are not cost-competitive with conventional fuels. Biofuels have a lower energy density than fossil fuels. Therefore, engine adjustments are required when blending large volumes of biofuels.
It is also critical to ensure that resources are free of contaminants. An unclean fuel stock can damage the internal components of engines, supply systems, and other equipment. Additionally, sulphur regulatory limits must be met by all biofuels, whether blended or not. The presence of chlorine in some biofuels may also cause corrosion damage during and after the production stages. And when blending fuels, the different molecules can behave differently, which requires precise management to ensure that the fuel functions as intended.

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