Biodiesel

As well as using organic oils in feed fats, bio-fuel production and renewable energy generation, PDM Group is also involved in the large-scale production of biodiesel.

Biodiesel is an environmentally friendly alternative to mineral-oil based diesel. Biodiesel is made from renewable resources such as animal fats (tallow) or vegetable oils (including used vegetable oils from catering establishments).

Biodiesel manufactured by PDM Group's specialist partners Argent Energy is produced to BS EN 14214 (the European Standard for biodiesel) and attracts the full duty reduction, unlike the inferior 'biodiesel' produced by some of the illegal unlicensed 'back-street' operators that have sprung up across the UK.

Biodiesel has combustion properties very similar to those of mineral-oil diesel and can replace it in most applications. However, it is at present most often used as an additive to mineral-oil diesel in a blend typically of 5% biodiesel and 95% mineral oil in order to avoid the need for modifications to engines.

Biodiesel offers many advantages over mineral-oil diesel including a lower flash point, improved lubrication and combustion. Biodiesel is non-toxic and offers many environmental benefits over mineral-oils including lower levels of carbon monoxide, particulates, carbon dioxide and aromatic hydrocarbons. Also, unlike mineral oils, biodiesel does not produce sulphur emissions.