Production, distribution and storage
FAME biodiesel is in principle compatible with the current vehicles, logistic systems and practices, however, stability issues are challenging. During long-term storage FAME biodiesel have a “use before” date. FAME that meets the specification should provide six months of storage capability before unacceptable degradation occurs, but this depends on storage conditions (WWFC 2009). Heat and sunlight can accelerate the oxidation process. FAME biodiesel should not be stored in systems that contain copper, brass, bronze, lead, and tin. Those metals will accelerate the aging process and will contribute to higher sediments. Also avoiding exposing the biodiesel fuel to oxygen during the storage can help to extend shelf life.
FAME may contain risky impurities, and its tendency to pick up and solve water is also higher than that of traditional diesel fuels. This raises consideration of measures to prevent microbiological growth.
Methyl esters have been used for many years as cleaners and solvents. It should not be surprising, then, that biodiesel will have a tendency to dissolve sediments and residues that might accumulate over time in storage tanks. The released sediments then can lead to filter plugging. Therefore, when storing FAME biodiesel it is advisable to clean the storage tank if has been used previously for other fuels. With biodiesel blends of less than 35% FAME biodiesel, the problem is not as great. As polar compound, biodiesel dissolve also materials of cars and vehicles, such as seals of fuel system or paint coatings, more efficiently than diesel fuel. Many engine and vehicle manufacturers have taken this into account, but for many cars and vehicles problems may occur. (IEA-AMF Task 34-1 McGill et al. 2008).
Flash point of FAME is well above +55 °C, which is the limit set for diesel fuel, meaning that FAME can be stored and transported like standard diesel fuel. However, even a small amount of methanol remnant lowers the flash point rapidly. (WWFC 2009).