Novosibirsk has developed a blended biofuel composition that retains its working properties at sub-zero temperatures and reduces the toxicity of diesel engine exhaust. The solution was created by employees of the Novosibirsk University of Biotechnology (FSBEI HE "University of Biotechnology").
The developers combined esters from waste vegetable oil, standard diesel fuel, and butanol. This combination improves combustion completeness, reduces soot and nitrogen oxide formation, and addresses the problem of food waste disposal.
Scientists once again emphasized that processing used oils transforms an environmental risk into a valuable raw material.
This work is of particular importance for Russian conditions. In the country, biofuel programs are developing slower than in Europe, largely due to the harsh climate. Ordinary biodiesel blends often thicken in the cold, clog filters, and disrupt fuel system operation. The new formula maintains fluidity and stability in winter, allowing its use in freight transport, agricultural machinery, and industrial equipment without engine modifications.
The technical basis of the project relies on a precise selection of proportions that do not require modification of serial diesel systems. Butanol acts as a low-freezing additive, while esters from recycled materials reduce the carbon footprint. According to preliminary estimates, the introduction of the composition will reduce particulate emissions and increase combustion efficiency, especially during prolonged cold periods.