Biodiesel may be the fuel of the future. This product, made largely from vegetable oil (the same stuff you fry foods in), is one of the most innovative alternative energy solutions to hit the world. Producing biodiesel has become a hobby for many who are seeking cleaner alternatives to gasoline and diesel fuel-when made correctly, you can use biodiesel in any diesel powered vehicle engine, without making modification to the engine. By researching this process further, you too can create biodiesel for personal use. Remember that being safe is your number one priority, so be sure to take all cautions necessary when creating this biofuel.

Creating biofuel is easy, as long as you are always safe. Be sure to keep a fire extinguisher on hand and work in a well-ventilated area, since you will be working with toxic materials. Once the biodiesel is created, it is less dangerous than table salt and not harmful to the environment. To create biodiesel, you need vegetable oil, methane, and lye, as well as water. Many recipes can be found to give you exact measurements.

First, heat the oil to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and check titration levels. When everything is in good working order, mix together the lye and methane is a separate container. Begin the chemical reaction within the oil by slowly mixing in the methane/lye mixture. As the substance cools, it will separate into two layers-the bottom layer is glycerin, and the top is your biodiesel. Wash the biodiesel with water to remove impurities and allow it to separate once again. Transfer to a storage container and allow the biofuel to dry. That’s all there is to the process-at this point you can fill up your fuel tank.

Remember to practice caution in this process, especially in the first few steps. When heating the used oil, it will pop and spit until all of the water has evaporated, so be careful that you are not burned. It is a good idea to wear gloves and eye protection. Also, by mixing the methane and lye, you will create methoxide, a very poisonous substance. Do not breath the vapors and quickly wash off any splashes, as it will irritate your skin. It also corrodes plastic, so this type of mixing container cannot be used. The end result will be a very useful material, but check with your manufacturer before filling your tank-it may negate the engine’s warranty. Biodiesel is a great way to do your part to clean the environment, and by using it in your vehicle, you are also setting a good example for those around you.

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