How is Green Diesel Made?

In the fuel industry, there is a growing focus on reducing carbon emissions and sustainability. This means that the use of renewable energy sources within businesses is becoming a priority.

One renewable fuel gaining credibility for its many benefits on the environment is green diesel, but how is green diesel made?

In this blog, we will discover what green diesel is and look into the process behind green diesel production.

Understanding Green Diesel

Green diesel, also known as renewable diesel or hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) is a clean-burning alternative to traditional diesel derived from petrol. Unlike biodiesel, which is typically made from animal fats or vegetable oils through a process called transesterification, green diesel is produced through a process called hydrotreating which results in a product that is chemically similar to regular diesel.

Feedstock Selection

The first step that occurs in the green diesel production process is the feedstock selection. The selection of feedstock can include vegetable oils, animal fats, and used cooking oil. The choice of feedstock in the production process can have a major impact on the production process of green diesel and its environmental benefits.

Hydro Processing

The next step after the feedstock has been selected, the fuel undergoes a process called hydro processing. Hydro processing involves subjecting the feedstock to high temperature and pressure in the presence of a catalyst. The purpose of this process is to break down the feedstock into smaller hydrocarbon molecules, which are then refined into green diesel.

Isomerisation

Isomerisation is another crucial step that is required to take place in the green diesel production process. During this process, the hydrocarbon molecules are rearranged to improve the fuel’s cold flow properties and increase its cetane number which is a measure of its ignition quality. The purpose of this process is to help improve the performance of green diesel when in use and ensure its compatibility with diesel engines.

Hydrotreating

Hydrotreating is a refining process that removes impurities and sulfur compounds from green diesel. The purpose of removing these compounds is due to sulfur being a harmful pollutant meaning that if included in the production of green diesel green diesel would produce a high amount of carbon emissions and contribute to air pollution.

By removing sulfur through hydrotreating, green diesel helps reduce harmful emissions and mitigate environmental impact.

Product Refinement

After undergoing hydro processing, isomerisation, and hydrotreating, green diesel is further required to undergo a refinement process to meet the standards and requirements set by the petrol industry. This may require processes such as distillation, filtration, and blending to achieve the specific requirements for performance, stability, and compatibility with existing infrastructure.

The Benefits of Green Diesel

Green diesel has gained an increased amount of credibility over recent times due to the many benefits it has in use. Here are some of its key benefits:

Environmental Sustainability

Compared to regular diesel, which emits harmful emissions such as carbon dioxide and sulfur oxides, green diesel is produced from renewable sources and emits fewer greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing carbon emissions, green diesel helps positively impact climate change and improve air quality.

Energy Security

Green diesel reduces the need for businesses and industries to depend on using fossil fuels leading to an improvement in energy security and resilience. As renewable feedstocks can be sourced locally, green diesel promotes home energy production and reduces the reliance on global oil markets.

Compatibility

Green diesel is compatible with existing diesel engines and infrastructure, making it a simple transition for consumers and businesses. Unlike some alternative fuels, green diesel does not require engine modifications or infrastructure upgrades making it easier for businesses to adapt to the new fuel without difficulties.

Performance

Green diesel offers similar or improved performance compared to conventional diesel. With its high cetane number and superior cold flow properties, green diesel provides efficient combustion and reliable engine operation in various conditions.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite its many benefits, green diesel’s production process faces several challenges and considerations:

Feedstock Availability

The availability of sustainable feedstock sources for green diesel production can be limited and may be up for competition with food production and other industries due to there being a high demand. Sustainable practices and technological innovations are essential and need to be put in place to avoid competition and to overcome feedstock-related challenges.

Advancements in Technology

Continuous development in research and technology is essential to improve the efficiency of green diesel when in use and the cost of the green diesel production process. Advancements in tool development, process optimisation, and production strategies can all help enhance the viability of renewable diesel as a reliable and efficient fuel option for your business.

Government Policies

Government policies play a crucial role in promoting the adoption of renewable fuels in businesses across the UK and supporting investment in green diesel production. Policy measures such as renewable fuel approval, diesel pricing, and tax policies can provide businesses with a reason to transition towards low-carbon transportation fuels.

Green Diesel at Pleavin Petroleum

As businesses and industries look to transition towards having an enhanced positive impact on the environment and climate change, the demand for renewable fuels like green diesel will continue to grow. If you are looking to make the change to green diesel for your business, look no further than Pleavin Petroleum for a reliable service.

Here at Pleavin Petroleum, we take pride in ensuring the satisfaction of our customers when utilising our products and services. If you are looking to purchase green diesel, place an order with us today and receive your order within 24 hours as we aim to keep your business running smoothly.