It hasn't taken long for the nation's East Coast to latch onto biodiesel. Numerous fleets are switching to the renewable fuel, and nearly every eastern state has plants on the drawing board. That excitement was evident at this year's Biofuels Workshop & Trade Show: Eastern Region held in Atlanta, Ga., on Oct. 10-12.
 
 More than 400 people attended the event, many of who were intent on learning about the expanding biodiesel industry. Leland Tong, a consultant with MARC IV and the National Biodiesel Board's economic and technical advisor, said today's biodiesel industry is nothing like what it will be in five years. He emphasized the importance of state incentives in achieving that growth. "They're the key to success from here on out," he said. 
 
 In 2005, 30 states introduced 170 pieces of biodiesel legislation. Thirty of those bills were signed into law. The Illinois biodiesel sales tax credit, which is driving the demand for biodiesel in that state, is a prime example.
 Fuel quality, OEM testing and new uses for glycerin was also cited as important issues facing the biodiesel industry. "ASTM is not a recommendation-it is the true standard," Tong said. "The 'bad apples' will be out of the industry in a few years, and we're going to have to live with the repercussions."
 

 Brian Gerhart, vice president of wholesale for Massachusetts-based Worley & Obetz, provided an overview of the biodiesel industry in the Northeast. He said the bioheat market in the area holds great promise. He discussed the Northeast's first biodiesel injection blending fuel terminal that recently opened in Highspire, Pa.
 
 Biodiesel production feedstocks were another hot topic. FCStone LLC's Peter Nessler said that only a handful of companies control most of the soy crush capacity in the United States. Therefore, biodiesel producers need to exercise proper risk management in order to secure a steady feedstock supply. He said today's soy oil carryout amounts to approximately 205 MMgy of biodiesel. Several conference attendees suggested it might be time for market acceptance of imported feedstocks such as palm oil or Brazilian soy oil.
 
 Workshop participants also took part in a comprehensive review of existing state incentives for biofuels production and use on the East Coast. These talks were followed by discussions of how it may be possible to regionally coordinate the incentives for greater effectiveness. Later, representatives from these discussions presented summaries and recommendations to a panel of policymakers, who were given the opportunity to respond. Both the recommendations and responses will be detailed in the January issue of Biodiesel Magazine.

Biofuels support growing in the East

Massachusetts-based World Energy Alternatives has invested close to $2 million in upgrading its Lakeland, Fla., biodiesel plant since its acquisition of the facility in 2004. World Energy's wholly owned subsidiary, Purada Processing LLC, manages the plant.
 
 "We are doing a rehabilitation of the plant in a phased development effort," Gene Gebolys, president and CEO of World Energy, said of the 8-year-old plant. The rehabilitation will be completed in three phases. Construction work for all three phases will be done while the plant is up and running. World Energy has completed the first phase, is nearing completion of phase two and has already started on the final phase. 
 
 The first phase involved updating plant safety features and environmental qualifications. Phase two involves improving the facility's efficiency by adding larger storage tanks, pumps, new equipment and more staff. The third and final stage will be increasing the plants production capacity. Next year, World Energy plans to have the plant producing 30 MMgy, up from its original nameplate of 18 MMgy. "By the time we are finished revamping, the original engineers won't even recognize the facility," Gebolys said. 
 
 The facility may take on a new look-and capacity-but its essential production process will remain the same. The plant will continue to produce biodiesel from a large variety of mixed feedstocks ranging from corn, soy and canola oils, to poultry fat and waste vegetable oils. 
 
 World Energy has not officially announced a completion date for the "rehabilitation" process but expects to finish sometime in mid-2006. "There have been constant improvements since 2004, and they are ongoing," Gebolys said. Gebolys also said, once completed, this will most likely be the final expansion the plant will see.

Purada Processing boosts capacity

From day one, Defiance, Ohio-based American Ag Fuels planned on expanding its operation. It appears the company is sticking to its word.
 
 On July 1, American Ag Fuels completed phase one of its construction process and came on line with an initial capacity of 1 MMgy. By early November, the plant had produced 100,000 gallons of B100-a key milestone for the company-and was moving ahead with a second round of construction. The second phase of building will expand the plant's production capacity to 6 MMgy and is expected to get underway soon. "We are finalizing some decisions about the expansion and expect to begin shortly," American Ag Fuels CEO Steve Lankenau said. 
 
 Besides more than tripling the plant's production capacity, the upsizing will make the plant somewhat unique by adding a second process technology. Currently the plant uses a batch system. When the expansion is complete, American Ag Fuels will be able to produce biodiesel from both batch and continuous systems. "It was a conscious decision", Lankenau said about using two process systems. "We wanted to have the ability to supply those who just want soy-based biodiesel as well as supply a biodiesel product that is lower in cost [and] derived from other feedstocks." Another reason American Ag Fuels went with the dual process system was for the sake of profitability. "By using two systems, we were able to get into production quicker and started generating cash flow," Lankenau said. "It will also allow us to stay in production while one (system) is down." 
 
 American Ag Fuels wants to stay competitive with the local petroleum diesel markets. According to Lankenau, the company will tag its biodiesel rack price at the same price as the local petroleum rack price. "In the end, we want users to get the product in their tank at the same price [as diesel]-day in and day out," Lankenau said. 
 

 The final construction cost has not been determined due to some final unresolved details. Lankenau is confident that the expansion and upsizing will be completed, and the plant operational, by mid-2006.

American Ag Fuels plans plant upgrade to 6 MMgy

TexCom Inc. announced its plans to construct a 30 MMgy biodiesel plant at a bulk liquids terminal in Seabrook, Texas. The company said it plans to contract with Lurgi PSI for process technology, design and construction of the plant. Groundbreaking for the facility, which will use soy oil as a feedstock, is expected in mid- to late December with start-up in the fourth quarter of 2006. Project design also includes the capability to store petroleum diesel, which would allow TexCom to blend various biodiesel blends.

Company selects site for 30 MMgy Texas plant

During October's Biofuels Workshop & Trade Show in Atlanta, Ga., Eugene Holmes announced plans for a 30 MMgy biodiesel plant in Clarksdale, Miss., Delta Biofuels LLC would be located near an existing soybean crushing facility operated by Bunge. Holmes said he expects the plant to produce biodiesel at a total cost of $2.20 per gallon. He also said the plant might use its glycerin as a boiler fuel.

Delta Biofuels proposes 30 MMgy plant in Mississippi

Another proposed biodiesel plant has popped up in Illinois. Larry Larson, director of solid waste in Knox County, has been pushing for a facility near Galesburg. He said the project is looking for investors to fund a pre-feasibility study. The area has soy oil and grease feedstock supplies. Larson said he has been pushing for the plant for about nine months. Stepan Co. currently operates the state's only large-scale commercial biodiesel plant.

Proposed Illinois plant in early development

ASTM International has made it more convenient to access information on the ASTM standards affecting biodiesel. In October, ASTM released a new CD-ROM containing the latest edition of ASTM standards D 6751 and all 35 referenced ASTM documents.
 
 The convenient and easy-to-use CD-ROM includes PDF files of the detailed and specific ASTM standards related to biodiesel. It is an excellent source for anyone needing information about D 6751 and its specific requirements.
 
 In 2001, ASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum Products and Lubricants approved Standard Specification D 6751 for Biodiesel Fuel Blend Stock for Distillate Fuels. In this standard, biodiesel is defined as "a fuel comprised of mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats, designated B100."
 
 A sample of the contents includes test methods for D93 flash point by Pensky-Martens closed cup tester, D 130 corrosiveness to copper from petroleum products by copper strip test, D 445 kinematic viscosity of transparent and opaque liquids, D 2500 cloud point of petroleum products, and many more. It also includes a guide for D 4865 generation and dissipation of static electricity in petroleum fuel systems, and D 6469 microbial contamination in fuels and fuel systems.
 
 The CD-ROM is available for $85. To order the CD-ROM or for more information, please contact ASTM by phone at (610) 832-9585, fax at (610) 832-9555 or via e-mail at service@astm.org. Information is also available online at www.astm.org.

ASTM issues standards on CD-ROM

The biodiesel division of ranching company Bently Agrowdynamics has created its own company and started biodiesel production, according to plant General Manager Carlo Luri. Bently Biofuels in Minden, Nev., produced its first batch of biodiesel Nov. 2.
 
 The plant, built and designed by Hawaii-based Pacific Biodiesel, will use several feedstocks to produce 1 MMgy of biodiesel once the facility is in full production tentatively scheduled for the end of this year. Luri said the plant will use canola oil grown by Bently Agrowdynamics as a feedstock and also experiment with tallow, yellow grease and recycled restaurant grease. "It is hard to soybeans in this part of the country," Luri said. "Being a batch process, we have a lot of flexibility."
 
 Bently Biofuels will sell its own biodiesel. Approximately 25 percent of total production will be sold in Bently Agrowdynamics vehicles, Luri said. The rest will be used locally in Nevada and across the California border, five miles away. "We're close to Lake Tahoe, and there's a lot of environmental consciousness there," Luri added.
 
 A unique feature of Bently Biofuels is the solar panels used to heat the plant. In fact, company owner Don Bently has his hand in several environmentally friendly projects. He owns National Tribology Services, an oil testing company that tests biodiesel as well. For more information, visit www.biodieseltesting.com. In the future, Luri predicted the company could expand into other bioenergy projects as well.
 Bently Biofuels will host an open house Jan. 7, 2006. For more information, visit www.bentlybiofuels.com.

Bently Agrowdynamics spin-off starts biodiesel production

Nearing press time, Earth Biofuels was preparing for the start-up of its biodiesel refinery in Durant, Okla., by finishing up last-minute details such as the rail spur leading to and from the plant. "We're looking at Dec. 1," said Earth Biofuels CEO Tommy Johnson, referring to the start-up. "We plan on announcing when our official ceremony will be, but we're looking at Dec. 1 to begin production. The hurricanes set us back a bit."
 
 Earth Biofuels began construction on the 10 MMgy biodiesel plant in June. The plant's continuous flow process technology and design came by way of Miguel J. Dabdoub, a Brazilian professor who Johnson said designed a great number of the biodiesel plants in Europe. "This is his first U.S. plant," Johnson told Biodiesel Magazine. Dabdoub now works for Earth Biofuels Technology Co., the company's in-house design/build team, he said. Earth Biofuels Technology Co. also acted as general contractor in the construction of the Durant plant. 

 
 Feedstock for the new plant will consist of soy oil, canola oil and yellow grease. Johnson couldn't say what was being done with the glycerin coming out of the plant, or which company might be marketing the useful yet over-abundant material. 
 
 The Earth Biofuels Durant plant will market most of its 10 MMgy of biodiesel mainly to Oklahoma retailers through Alternative Fuel Distribution Company LLC, a company with which Earth Biofuels recently signed a distribution agreement to deliver Earth Biofuels-branded biodiesel to at least 50 retail spots throughout the state. With some big business deals underway at press time, Texas may see Earth Biofuels' biodiesel too. 
 
 Not only has the acclaimed actor Morgan Freeman been seated on Earth Biofuels' board of directors, but Willie Nelson has also come onboard. Johnson told Biodiesel Magazine that Nelson now sits on the board of directors. Furthermore, Earth Biofuels is making some keen purchases. "We bought Distribution Drive," Johnson said in mid-November. "We are working on our due diligence and should have everything finalized shortly." Distribution Drive is a Dallas-based biodiesel blender and distributor. Johnson said Distribution Drive is partnered with and supplies biodiesel to The Willie Nelson Biodiesel Co. Earth Biofuels now owns Nelson's company, according to Johnson.
 BQ-9000 certification, which includes quality assurances throughout the supply chain, is in the works for the Durant plant. "We bought brand new tankers to meet BQ-9000," Johnson said. "And we are hoping to gain BQ-9000-certification in about 90 days."

Earth Biofuels' Oklahoma plant coiled for startup

What a year it's been. If anybody had told me what this year-the year I became chairman of the National Biodiesel Board (NBB)-would bring, I may have winced at the thought of how neglected my own soybean crop would become. But something much more important than my own crop grew to heights I have always hoped for.
 
 While the industry's growth may have exceeded what anyone expected, it is no more than this product deserves. The reason for the emerging success of biodiesel now is because of the many dedicated industry leaders working behind the scenes to fit the puzzle pieces together. Consumers are realizing all the benefits of biodiesel, and realizing it at a time that could not be more pertinent. There is no place I'd rather be than witnessing the growth of this industry that farmers like myself and other industry players helped to develop from its infancy. The NBB has served as the chord that holds all those voices together.
 
 The federal biodiesel tax credit took effect Jan. 1 to ultimately reduce the price of biodiesel. The NBB, the American Soybean Association and other stakeholders worked with Congressional champions, seeing to it that this important legislation became law. Hardly had the incentive passed when the energy bill extended it through 2008-a major accomplishment. Coupled with state initiatives set in motion oftentimes by NBB members, demand skyrocketed. Legislation helped catalyze more production plants, more fuel sales (75 million gallons estimated for 2005), and more fleets and individuals using biodiesel than ever before. Biodiesel is even available at some petroleum refineries for the first time. 
 
 In 2005, household names Jeep and John Deere catapulted biodiesel in the public eye. Thanks to forward-thinking companies DaimlerChrysler and John Deere, more vehicles and pieces of equipment are using biodiesel. These original equipment manufacturers are fueling their manufactured diesel products with biodiesel blends for the first time. This is a direct result of investment in working closely with OEMs, and that investment will continue in 2006 and beyond. NBB has initiated an $11 million project with the U.S. DOE and major diesel engine companies for 2007/2010 diesel engine technology. Findings are to make blends up to B20 significantly cleaner than the cleanest natural gas engines or hybrid vehicles of today
 
 In concert with trucking advocate Willie Nelson, the NBB has helped to penetrate the trucking industry through outreach. Truckers are awakening to the benefits of biodiesel. As a result, the NBB has established www.biotrucker.com, a new resource for the open road. 2006 will show how open that road truly is.
 
 In addition to Nelson, other celebrities continue to sing the praises of biodiesel. Bonnie Raitt toured on B20 for a second time. Biodiesel powered the Farm Aid concert in Chicago. Morgan Freeman joined the board of Earth Biofuels. Neil Young, Woody Harrelson, Daryl Hannah and others helped spread the word on national television shows.

 
 Of course, one of the most powerful endorsements of biodiesel came from the leader of the free world. When NBB-member Virginia Biodiesel hosted President George W. Bush this spring, the rising tide lifted all boats. It was the first time in history that a U.S. president visited a biodiesel plant. This is the first time a president spoke at length about the benefits of biodiesel on national television.
 
 The NBB, through its farmer, fuel producer and technology members, and the support of biodiesel enthusiasts, is consistently gaining ground. This will ensure greater energy security, and economic and environmental benefits for all of us and generations to come. It was time well spent away from my soybean fields this year. 
 
 
 Sincerely,
 Darryl Brinkmann, Chairman
 National Biodiesel Board

Year in review: NBB helps pave the way for our energy independence, economy and environment

The U.S. EPA has begun its process of implementing the renewable fuels standard (RFS) contained in the recently enacted federal Energy Policy Act of 2005. For renewable diesel fuel's role in the legislation, National Biodiesel Board (NBB) staff and contractors are monitoring the U.S. EPA's rulemaking process and are in contact with agency staff, serving as a voice for biodiesel inclusion.
 
 Gene Gebolys, chairman of the NBB Regulatory Committee, in consultation with NBB CEO Joe Jobe and NBB Chairman Darryl Brinkmann, has appointed an industry ad hoc committee on this issue. Members of this industry coordination committee are Chairman Jeff Nelson, Stepan Co.; Kris Kappenman, Archer Daniels Midland Co.; Ron Heck, American Soybean Association; John Campbell, Ag Processing Inc.; Mike Szady, Dow; Jim Conway, Griffin Industries; and Fred Wellons of Baker Commodities. Scott Hughes, Alan Weber, and Mark Palmer are staffing the committee.
 
 The committee has identified several issues for clarification by the EPA. Some of the identified issues include ensuring biodiesel applicability as a compliance option for refiners and terminal operators beginning Jan. 1, 2006; and establishing an appropriate level of credit for biodiesel under the RFS's credit trading program. The RFS requires 7.5 billion gallons of renewable fuels use by 2012.

Biodiesel: Diesel engine option for renewable fuels standard

The American Trucking Association (ATA) recently announced action to "promote biodiesel use" of up to 5 percent (B5) and improve the balance between environmental concerns and fuel efficiency. This will lead to air and energy security benefits by extending petroleum reserves for this large U.S. diesel market. 
 
 In October, the ATA's board of directors unanimously endorsed an energy resolution that includes increasing the diesel fuel supply and eliminating boutique diesel fuels. The organization is working toward a strong national energy plan. The resolution, sanctioned at ATA's annual Management Conference and Exhibition in Boston, said "biodiesel may be an effective means to extend the supply of diesel fuel."
 Joe Jobe, CEO of the National Biodiesel Board, was on hand during these meetings and addressed the group on the benefits of biodiesel to the trucking industry.
 

 "ATA is proud to endorse the use of biodiesel in blends of up to 5 percent," said Rich Moskowitz, ATA regulatory affairs counsel. "It fits in with our mission of ensuring an adequate diesel fuel supply-something important to the trucking industry. Promoting B5 is a step in the right direction." 
 
 To see the ATA resolution, visit the ATA Web site at www.truckline.com.

American Trucking Association endorses B5

John Plaza can't seem to make biodiesel fast enough. The president and founder of Seattle Biodiesel said the plant is producing biodiesel at full capacity-and his customers snap it up as soon as it is made. 
 
 Located in downtown Seattle, Wa., Plaza's experience with his 5 MMgy plant illustrates the national picture. The National Biodiesel Board (NBB), of which Plaza is a member, anticipates 75 million gallons of biodiesel production in 2005. That's three times the 25 million gallons produced just one year earlier. 
 
 A federal tax incentive, state legislation and a diesel shortage all contributed to the rise in demand. But Plaza said he thinks Americans are finally waking up to alternative fuels. 
 
 "A lot of Americans like the patriotic aspect of biodiesel," he said. "The environmental benefits add value, but creating a stronger America through energy security is many people's true motivation-including my own." 
 
 Plaza left a career as a commercial airline pilot to pursue his interest in alternative energy. "I was flying a 747 from Anchorage to Tokyo, and I started thinking about how much fuel that flight used," he said. "I figured out that in one 6 ½ hour flight, we used enough fuel to power my personal vehicle for 42 years. I had to make a change." 
 
 The biodiesel industry will meet growing demand with increased production. The average plant size is about 6.5 million gallons per year, but some larger plants in the 30 million-gallon range have also opened. In all, 45 plants produce biodiesel, with another 54 planned. 
 
 "We made a small batch of biodiesel from canola oil, making us the first to turn a Washington-grown crop into biodiesel for the marketplace," Plaza said. "We're quite enamored with driving around on it." 
 
 Visit <a target="_blank" href="http://">www.biodiesel.org/buyingbiodiesel/producers_marketers/ProducersMap-existingandpotential.pdf </a>for a map of current and proposed biodiesel plants.

2005 biodiesel production expected to triple last year's figures

Musician and biodiesel advocate Willie Nelson will headline what promises to be the most comprehensive educational and networking event in the biodiesel industry's history: the 2006 National Biodiesel Conference & Expo. With more people using biodiesel than ever before, the doubling of biodiesel production and favorable legislation that kick-started the industry, the National Biodiesel Board has made this ever-growing conference the single best source of biodiesel information. To establish your strong footing in the industry, register for the conference, held Feb. 5-8 in San Diego, Calif.

 
 This has been a landmark year for biodiesel, with production for 2005 expected to triple 2004 volumes. With sessions covering everything from fuel quality standards, legislation, new marketing strategies, trends in bioheat and production forecasts of biodiesel, this conference will be the year to attend. 
 
 Major attractions of the conference will include Nelson, a partner in Willie Nelson's Biodiesel, participating in a live Bill Mack, The Satellite Cowboy Show broadcast on XM Satellite Radio during a general session. The conference will also serve as a launching pad for Biodiesel America, an engaging new book by Josh Tickell about the past and present biodiesel industry and its role in extending America's fuel supply. 
 
 With six tracks-technical, markets, regulatory, fuel distribution, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and user-and 40 sessions, attendees will have a rich variety of educational programs from which to choose. Some educational session examples are "Selling Americans on the Diesel Engine," "Inside the Federal Biodiesel Tax Credit" and "Supply, Capacity and Pricing Trends of Biodiesel." 
 The conference will also feature a 125-exhibit trade show with the field's latest products and services. Other events include valuable pre-conference training sessions, like a plant feasibility workshop, and networking and social events that include a golf tournament, Super Bowl reception and book launch party featuring a performance by singer/songwriter Emily Richards. 
 
 
 For seminar details, visit:www.biodieselconference.org
 
 For pre-conference registration, visit: www.biodieselconference.org/2006/conference/registration.asp

Willie Nelson to address trucking, biodiesel industries at National Biodiesel Conference

The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) continues to aggressively pursue its testing program on behalf of the industry to certify B20 as a Texas Low Emission Diesel program (TxLED) equivalent diesel fuel. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has awarded three grants to the NBB to fund these tests. The NBB is providing significant additional financial resources to complete the testing.
 
 The NBB plans to conduct the testing so that a B20 blend utilizing biodiesel meeting ASTM specifications (regardless of feedstock) would be covered. The blend will have to include one of the additive formulations approved by TCEQ. The NBB is partnering with Octel-Starreon to test B20 with one of Octel-Starreon's NOx reducing additives; B20 blend utilizing a generic cetane improver, ethyl hexyl nitrate, which has shown to lower NOx through work done at NREL; and B20 using a third additive which is yet to be selected.
 
 "Locating a reference diesel fuel that could be acceptable to both the TCEQ and California Air Resources Board (CARB) has been difficult and led to delays in testing," said Scott Hughes, NBB regulatory director. "NBB intends to work with CARB to use the results of this testing project for its ongoing CARB B20 testing project, in effect killing two birds with one stone." 
 

 The potential reference fuel is scheduled to undergo required fuel analysis that both TCEQ and CARB will review. Preliminary data has been sent to speed the reference fuel's approval process, upon which the emissions testing through Southwest Research Institute can begin. After pre-screening, each additive formulation will take approximately one week to complete its tests. "Our goal is to complete testing and have certifications by the end of the year," Hughes said.

NBB works to clarify Texas market, dye injection regulations

The American JOBS Creation Act contained a provision that specified tax exemption for dyed diesel fuel. The 2004 law said exemption would only apply to fuel dyed with a mechanical injection system. Earlier this year, the IRS published temporary and final regulations implementing this requirement, which took effect Oct. 24. Due to concerns of reaching compliance in time, the IRS has issued transition rules for blends up to B20. 
 
 The NBB has reviewed the biodiesel-related provisions, and the following is its understanding: (Please note-the following is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax advice). A mixture of diesel fuel, or kerosene and biodiesel, will be treated as being dyed by mechanical injection if all the following requirements are met:
 
 -The blend contains at least 80 percent diesel fuel (blends up to and including B20)
 -The diesel fuel or kerosene in the blend was dyed by a mechanical injection system
 -The blend is created at a facility that is not a terminal
 -The dye concentration of the finished blend meets the federal requirement when it is removed from the facility where it was made
 
 If the blend does not meet the concentration requirement above, the blender must ensure it meets the federal requirement when it is removed <<Texas market continued from previous column 
 
 from the blending facility. Please note the limitations on this transitional rule; in particular, the diesel fuel component must have been dyed by mechanical injection. This means that a jobber cannot, for example, buy clear diesel fuel at a terminal or elsewhere and dye it manually.
 
 The transition rule doesn't specify what mechanisms are allowed for adding dye to blends greater than B20. B100 and blends containing less than 4 percent normal paraffin are considered "excluded liquids" by the IRS and do not require the addition of dye when used in tax exempt applications.
 
 These transition rules are in effect until a date that is 180 days after the IRS publishes final regulations in the Federal Register.

 
 The transition rules are contained in IRS Notice 05-80 (n-05-80). This notice can be found on the IRS Web site at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-05-80.pdf.

IRS issues transition rules for mechanical dye injection

You would think it would be cool to have one of the most notable actors of the time as your boss, and it is, said Tommy Johnson, CEO of Earth Biofuels Inc. But it is also demanding, he added.
 
 Oscar winning actor Morgan Freeman recently joined Earth Biofuels' board of directors. Like many of the characters he has portrayed, he is very analytical when it comes to his business-in this case, biodiesel, Johnson said.
 
 Earth Biofuels, a member of the National Biodiesel Board, is a producer of biodiesel headquartered in Mississippi. Freeman has starred in such movies as "Driving Miss Daisy," "The Shawshank Redemption" and "Million Dollar Baby." 
 Willie Nelson is also a recent addition to Earth Biofuels' board of directors, Johnson said.

Biodiesel generates new star power

Three new biodiesel books have recently been published for those who have an interest in reading about renewable fuels. Biodiesel Power: The Passion, the People and the Politics of the Next Renewable Fuel by Lyle Estill is a chronicle of the emerging biodiesel industry. Not so technical, it focuses on the people who created a biodiesel movement. Josh Tickell has written a second biodiesel book titled, Biodiesel America. In it, energy and fuel industry experts discuss how biodiesel can help the United States achieve independent energy security. And, for children of all ages, Linda Hempel has written, Have Fries-Will Travel, a colorful story about the adventures of a biodiesel-fueled car. Check your local bookstore for these reads

Biodiesel books hit the shelves

Based on a constant volume combustion apparadus, developed by the Southwest Research Institute, headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, a new way to measure cetane, a number that indicates ignition quality in diesel fuel, is a variable. The new Ignition Quality Tester (IQT), accepted as ASTM 6890D/IP 498, is a combustion-based analytical instrument that efficiently and accurately determines cetane values in diesel and biodiesel in minutes. The IQT provides faster, more accurate results than traditional ASTM D613/IP41 tests and has been adopted by major international pil companies for routine quality control. For sales information, please contact Gary Webster of AET Ltd. in Ottawa, Ontario, at (613) 721-1234 or gary@aet.ca.

New cetane measurement tool available

The Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and Industry awarded Alcoa Tennessee Operations with an Air Quality Achievement Certificate at its 23rd annual Environmental Awards Conference in Nashville, Tenn., in early October. Alcoa, primarily an aluminum manufacturer, earned the award by fueling approximately 550 vehicles with B20. The company initially began using the renewable fuel in November 2004, but improper blending caused clogged fuel filters, according to Alcoa Community Relations Manager Melissa Copelan. Once the problem was pinpointed and resolved, the company restarted the program in April.

Alcoa receives environmental award

Biofuel Brokers LLC announced the finalization of a three-year sales agreement for the entire production of biodiesel produced by Biomass Energy Services' planned Cordele, Ga., facility. The 5 MMgy continuous flow plant will use soy oil as a feedstock. Biomass Energy Services President Randy Parker said in November the project was raising capital. Biofuel Brokers announced a similar purchase agreement in September with Greenfield, Mass.-based Northeast Biodiesel Co.

Biofuel Brokers finalizes sales agreement

The Citizens of Pennsylvania's Future (CPF) recently honored several individuals, companies and organizations with Green Power awards for using, producing or promoting renewable, environmentally friendly energy technologies. One group, the Energy Cooperative Association of Pennsylvania (ECAP), was awarded the Green Power award by CPF for its contribution to biodiesel power development by supplying the city of Philadelphia with bioheat and biodiesel. Philadelphia Fry-O-Diesel is ECAP's sister company. n
 
 Freedonia Group releases 
 "Soy Products & Markets" study

 U.S. demand for soy products is expected to increase some 5 percent annually to $8.7 billion by 2009. Soy, in the industrial sector-including biodiesel and plastics-will see a growth rate of 14 percent each year and will encompass 10 percent of all soy product demand in 2009. These and other soy trends are presented in "Soy Products & Markets," a recent study released by the Cleveland-based industrial market research firm, The Freedonia Group Inc.

Pennsylvania co-op receives green award

Bunge Ltd. has announced that its European subsidiary and Diester Industrie have been granted approval from the European Commission to create a joint venture specializing in the production and marketing of biodiesel. This new company will be called Diester Industrie International (DII). DII will combine Bunge and Diester Industrie's biodiesel assets in Europe with an expected capacity of 430,000 tons. "The creation of this joint venture is a step ahead to better meet the growing need for biofuels in Europe," said Jean-Louis Gourbin, CEO of Bunge Europe.

Bunge announces European biodiesel joint venture

In late October, NewGen Technologies Inc. announced the signing of a letter of intent to merge into Prolong International Corp., a maker of proprietary lubricants and fuel additives. The company will take the name NewGen Technologies and operate through two subsidiaries: ReFuel America Inc. and Prolong Super Lubricants Inc. The company will trade on the American Stock Exchange. North Carolina-based NewGen intends to be a producer and distributor of biodiesel.

NewGen merges with Prolong

Piedmont Biofuels, a Pittsboro, N.C.-based co-op currently building a 1 MMgy biodiesel facility, received an award for its work in promoting clean technology at the fourth annual Sustainable North Carolina Awards Ceremony. The clean technology award is for cutting-edge technologies that build the infrastructure for sustainable products or services. Sustainable North Carolina (SNC) is a nonprofit focused on promoting and enabling practices that optimize economics, communities and natural systems. Today, SNC's mission is to be a catalyst for the widespread adoption of sustainable principles and practices by North Carolina businesses and communities.

Piedmont Biofuels wins clean technology award

Pacific Biodiesel Inc. recently became one of only eight recipients honored with the BlueSky Award 2005. BlueSky, sponsored by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization in conjunction with the Shenzen, China-based International Technology Promotion Center for Sustainable Development, is a non-profit program that encourages the use of renewable energy sources in developing countries. Pacific Biodiesel's technology and its community-based fuel production/distribution model were what clinched the award for the company.

Pacific Biodiesel wins BlueSky Award

Kwikpower, a renewable energy and fuels company specializing in carbon recycling, and Universal Technologies (UTEK), a technology transfer company, announced the completion of a technology transfer involving a biodiesel intensification process to Kwikpower. The transferred technology is the license to a process called biodiesel "intensification," originally developed by the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom and was first demonstrated at the Clean Energy Technology Show in London earlier this year. Kwikpower International has acquired Biodiesel Technologies Inc., a company established by UTEK specifically for this transaction.

UTEK completes technology transfer to Kwikpower

The farmers Union Marketing and Processing Association (FUMPA) was named the Southwest Minnesota Business of the Year. The Southwest Minnesota Economic/Workforce Development Committee presents the award to a candidate that exhibits success in innovation, response to adversity and community involvement. "We were very pleased and very thrilled to receive the award," said Chuck Neece, FUMPA director of research and development. FUMPA Biofuels, a division of FUMPA, produces biodiesel in Redwood Falls, Minn.

FUMPA receives Minnesota business award

Involved participants and those interested in the Philippines coconut methyl ester business have banded together to form the Philippine Biodiesel Association to further promote coco-biodiesel, or biodiesel made from coconut oil. Skyrocketing oil prices have helped validate the association's formation. The group's first consolidated effort will be pushing for a mandatory 1 percent coco-biodiesel in the Philippine diesel fuel supply.

Philippine Biodiesel Association formed

The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) has hired Matt Hartwig as communications director. He succeeds Monte Shaw, who joined the Iowa RFA as executive director. Most recently, Hartwig worked as assistant media director for the Consumers Union in Washington, D.C. He was also a democratic communications director for the Senate Agriculture Committee. Hartwig received a bachelor's degree in journalism from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa.

Hartwig joins RFA

Biofuel Brokers, a Michigan-based marketer of ethanol and biodiesel, announced Joel Glatz as its vice president of sales. Glatz will be responsible for directing biodiesel, and ethanol sales and services to petroleum refineries, and wholesale fuel terminals and suppliers. He is also the vice president of Frontier Energy Inc., a biodiesel distribution company in Maine. Glatz has 21 years of experience in the wholesale and retail fuel industry.

Glatz joins Biofuel Brokers

When Joshua Tickell spoke with Biodiesel Magazine nine months ago, he said the meaning and significance of the feature-length documentary film he's shooting changes almost daily. "I am continually reevaluating what 'Fields of Fuel' is creatively," he said, explaining that the film is a pliable reflection of a volatile, ever-changing energy-dependent world. 
 
 In a year that brought record-high oil prices, a U.S. energy bill calling for expanded use of biofuels and natural disasters that exposed the acute vulnerability of America's energy infrastructure, it is no surprise that Tickell kept his cameras rolling. 
 Indeed, the scope and gravity of "Fields of Fuel" has changed since Biodiesel Magazine first met with Tickell and the film's producer Greg Reitman in February. In the midst of their shooting schedule this summer, several unforeseen events-some remarkable, some catastrophic-transpired and subsequently became crucial to the film. And while the film is probably a few months behind schedule, it has moved into post-production. 
 
 Now working away in his tiny editing room, Tickell has logged over 250 hours of raw and archival footage from the last decade. "As you get into editing, you start to see holes in the film," Tickell said. "I now know where the holes are, and I know we have a couple of little shoots to do to fill those gaps." Tickell would like one of those "little shoots" to be done in the one of the world's largest biofuels-producing nations, Brazil. "We are setting our sites on doing a shoot in Brazil because both the biodiesel and ethanol industries are exploding down there," Tickell said.
 
 Tickell and Reitman didn't classify the film as off schedule-just that they have extended the film's reach and refuse to put arbitrary timelines on the project. To be fair, Tickell did just complete another book, Biodiesel America, in which the author talks with authorities from around the world about the ills of petroleum dependence and the hope of biodiesel (www.biodieselamerica.org). Plus, the events of this past summer pushed Tickell's shooting schedule and post-production timeline back a few months. The passage of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which carried with it a federal renewable fuels standard that changed the face of the biofuels industry, requiring the use of 7.5 billion gallons of ethanol and biodiesel in the U.S. fuel supply by 2012, was the first big development. Then came record-high fuel prices, which, coupled with the biodiesel federal excise tax exemption, created unprecedented demand for biodiesel nationwide. Finally, the devastating effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita caused oil refinery shutdowns-which only exacerbated high fuel costs and exposed the fragility of the nation's transportation fuel supply chain. 
 
 It was as if a perfect energy storm had formed over America, and there was the "Fields of Fuel" crew in position to capture it all on film. In the aftermath of Katrina, Tickell, who is originally from Baton Rouge, La., started organizing a relief effort with the help of his non-profit VeggieVan organization. "We filled (two) vessels with biodiesel and [loaded] them with 15,000 tons of food and supplies," Tickell said. For 10 days, Tickell and the crew traveled across the Gulf of Mexico and up the mouth of the Mississippi River, delivering necessities to hurricane victims. Much of the collaborative effort was captured on film and will likely be featured in the final cut of the documentary. 
 
 Tickell said that by extending filming to include the passage of the energy bill, America's response to record-high oil prices and the post-hurricane demand for fuel, the film is stronger and more comprehensive than before. "[By delaying post-production], the film has gone from great to phenomenal," Tickell said. "One of the hardest skills that a documentary filmmaker learns is when to stop filming."
 
 Currently, over 95 percent of the film has been shot and has moved into post-production, but the final release date is yet to be determined, 
 Reitman said. "We are moving quite aggressively and would like to be done in May, but on a very practical level, the film will be done in September," Reitman explained. Tickell and Reitman both said they hope the 90-minute piece will be ready in time for many of the 2006 film festivals. 
 

 Reitman has not been overly involved in the post-production aspects of the film. In the first year of his business partnership with Tickell, Reitman dedicated himself exclusively to "Fields of Fuel." Now in his second year with the project, Rietman has given some of his time back to other pursuits but remains engaged with the film. By stepping back during the film's final post-production stretch, Reitman is ensuring that Tickell's independent, creative vision comes through in the final cut. "Like I said in the beginning, it's his film," the producer said.
 
 A global view of renewables
 The "Fields of Fuel" team, typically a crew of six, spent most of the past summer traveling the world. Their journey started with a biofuels conference in Portugal early this summer. The team was able to land some key interviews with international leaders-among them, Matthew Simmons, energy advisor to Vice President Dick Cheney, who was accompanied by consultants to the oil and finance industries. "[They] distinctly summarized the fact that we are currently at all-time peak oil production," Tickell said. "From this point on, [the world] will be producing less oil each year."
 
 The team's next stop was a tour of Germany. The filmmaker focused on German gas stations that were selling biodiesel, including B100. "We spent most of the time at gas stations speaking to motorists running their vehicles on B100," Tickell said, explaining that roughly one out of every 20 stations had B100 availiable, and Germans are taking advantage of the fuel. "Volkswagen is very supportive of biodiesel in Germany, but the more high-class car manufacturers see it more as a people's fuel and haven't made steps towards embracing it with the full authority Volkswagon has." 
 
 The crew eventually returned to the United States, shooting once again in the Midwest and northern California. "We essentially did a 19-day road trip all the way from Los Angeles to Louisiana (pre-Katrina), up to Missouri across the great plains to Colorado and back to Los Angeles," said Reitman, who traveled with Tickell during most of the filming. While trekking across America, the team spoke with officials from the California Air Research Board, as well as a variety of oil company executives, and made a stop at an elementary school to talk with students about renewable energy. "We really got the kids excited about biodiesel," Reitman said. 
 
 Unfortunately, the crew's latest U.S. expedition was capped off by the Gulf Coast hurricanes, which Tickell responded to almost immediately. 
 
 Documenting a changing world
 "Fields of Fuel" has perhaps evolved beyond Tickell's original concept, but the promise of biodiesel and the focus on renewable energy remains principal to the film. Tickell explained how documentary filmmaking is the documentation of real life. "You can't script real life," he said. "It involves change. We are documenting a change (in energy), so there is bound to be some variability." 
 
 Tickell has always kept the scope of the film global, and in the process of viewing hundreds of hours of footage, it has become clearer than ever that "Fields of Fuel" is capturing a worldwide renewable energy movement. And it's not just about how the United States can follow the lead of Europe or Brazil, but about how the world can follow the United States. "In a lot of ways, the United States has a viral culture," Tickell said. "People adopt everything American, from Coca-Cola to Madonna. … If we move forward with positive, definite steps to embrace renewable energy, it sends a message to every other country in the world."

 
 And while the film's chief focus remains biodiesel, it now encompasses all varieties of renewable energy including ethanol, wind and solar power. "This film has a more global perspective than when we began, but the backbone of the film is still biodiesel," Tickell said. "The film uses biodiesel to tie the whole thing together."
 
 A lasting experience
 Admirers of mogul documentary filmmaker Michael Moore, Tickell and Reitman feel there is an appetite for documentaries to push the envelope and provoke emotions in the viewer. They believe "Fields of Fuel" will do just that-"reach out and grab every American." 
 
 With the final cut of the film not yet completed, it is playing in Tickell's head. He said there are tremendous amounts of things in the film that will make viewers angry but also inspire them. "You will feel a gamut of emotions," Tickell claimed. "I guarantee that nobody will watch this film and not get angry. I guarantee that nobody will watch this film and not get inspired. I guarantee that nobody will watch this film without wanting to change their lives and their country." n
 
 Kory Wallen is an Biodiesel Magazine staff writer/photographer. Reach him at <a target="_blank" href="http://">kwallen@bbibiofuels.com </a>or (701) 746-8385.

As Joshua Tickell's now-epic filmmaking journey moves closer to completion, BDM caught up with the author/director, along with producer Greg Reitman, as the duo were fresh off a final round of globetrotting biodiesel shoots, capturing the last footage-and some of the most powerful images yet-for their trailblazing documentary film.

Harvesting Fields of Fuel

In July 2005, Biodiesel Magazine published an article titled, "Houston, Do We Have a Problem?" This timely feature placed a Texas-sized spotlight on the impending and restrictive air quality control measures taken by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to manage the release of diesel-borne NOx. 
 
 NOx is conventionally thought to be a major contributor to smog and ground-level ozone. The U.S. EPA has designated a large and heavily populated 110-county region in Texas as an air quality non-attainment zone. The air quality in metropolitan Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Antonio and surrounding areas has repeatedly failed to meet U.S. EPA threshold standards.
 
 To reverse or combat further ambient degradation, the TCEQ has taken an aggressive measure to regulate diesel fuel composition, mandating all on- and off-road diesel-including biodiesel blends-to be reformulated and tested, the results of which must show a specified reduction in NOx emissions compared to conventional diesel before the state can certify any diesel-based fuel for distribution, sale or use in the control zone, said TCEQ program coordinator Morris Brown.

 
 Texas Low Emission Diesel (TxLED) fuel typically exhibits 5.7 percent to 7 percent NOx reductions in diesel emissions testing, Brown said. To reach this reduction in NOx emissions, a diesel fuel must meet a minimum cetane requirement of 48 and an aromatic hydrocarbon content of 10 percent or less by volume. Any fuel meeting these TxLED properties can legally be blended, sold and used in the affected region once certified by TCEQ. TCEQ will also accept diesel formulations certified by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the EPA's Environmental Technology Verification Program or the EPA's Volunteer Diesel Retrofit Program, Brown said.
 
 Understandably, this puts the squeeze on biodiesel blends while creating impediments to challenge the state's biodiesel market. "It is the market," said Biodiesel Industries' Jake Stewart, referring to the Interstate 35 corridor. "It's 80 percent of the market or more. It might as well be all of Texas."
 
 All ASTM D 6751 biodiesel meets the aromatics and cetane specifications for TxLED, but because the commission has come to the supposition that, without question, biodiesel blends emit higher NOx, this assessment has guided the commission's inflexibility in, at the very least, revisiting any part of the regulation to tighten up any potential loose ends in the ruling. This stance may lead to even wider restrictions (outlined in more detail in this article).
 
 But for now, the TxLED's three-phase implementation is already taking effect. Delayed one month due to Hurricane Rita, the first deadline took effect in October. According to a Sept. 23 TCEQ release, the rule applied to producers and importers beginning Oct. 31, bulk plant distribution facilities Dec. 15, and retail fuel dispensing outlets, wholesale bulk purchase/consumer facilities and all other affected entities by Jan. 31, 2006. 
 
 Getting tested … and approved
 The New Technology, Research and Development (NTRD) program in TCEQ issued approximately $2 million in reimbursement grants to help applicants pay for the testing of their formulations in order to become state-certified as TxLED compliant, Brown said. Applications for grant funding are no longer being taken, and whether or not future grant-funding rounds will be available is yet to be determined, according to Brown. He said 14 projects were issued grants to test biodiesel blend formulations.
 
 Of those receiving grants, only one has had its product certified for biodiesel blends. GTAT California LLC's Viscon additive was tested this summer at Olson-EcoLogic Engine Testing Laboratory in Fullerton, Calif., and approved in September. GTAT's Pat Porter said the Viscon additive, which is not subject to EPA registration requirements, met and exceeded the TxLED standards. 
 
 GTAT originally tested its additive with ASTM 975-compliant No. 2 diesel fuel. Stewart said his company then worked with GTAT to fulfill a biodiesel component of the testing. Porter told Biodiesel Magazine that TCEQ officials informed him that Biodiesel Industries submitted an application for its biodiesel using the proprietary Viscon additive.
 

 Stewart said Biodiesel Industries paid for that testing out of its own pocket and didn't receive an NTRD grant. He said his company spent time developing a biodiesel blend with the most room for NOx reduction. "We absorbed a lot of risk," Stewart said. "But it beat the risk of not doing something."
 
 Stewart added, "Once we realized TxLED was here to stay with biodiesel, the best avenue of choice was to play by the rules and go aggressively for certification. We were fortunate that we met the bar."
 Currently, Biodiesel Industries' B20 with Viscon is the only approved biodiesel blend certified by TCEQ for use in the TxLED-affected areas. 
 
 Biodiesel Industries' biodiesel meets ASTM D 6751 specifications, but Brown said the company indicated that its biodiesel was a special, proprietary formulation exceeding ASTM standards.
 
 Stewart said Biodiesel Industries does use a slightly different process to produce its biodiesel. "It gives it properties that drop NOx production," he said. "It's all ASTM, but there are certain parameters that you can control and increase or decrease, many of which are known in the industry."
 
 Now possessing the only certified and registered brand of biodiesel for use in the TxLED control zone, Biodiesel Industries can legally sell the use of its state-certified license to other producer/blenders seeking to avoid a temporary shutdown in the business of blending biodiesel. "If they want to sell their licenses, they would be required to ensure that the person to whom the license is being sold is using the exact formulation," Brown said. He said that the TCEQ has authorization to enforce the proper licensing requirements by pulling samples at any point in the supply chain for testing. If results show an improper use of the licensing, Brown said both the company issuing the license and the purchaser may be liable for any possible infractions.
 
 Stewart said four groups are working with Biodiesel Industries to sublicense. He added that interested companies are encouraged to contact him regarding sublicensing, which requires a one-time licensing fee. "It would be a basic sublicensing agreement," Stewart said. "We would sublicense our (production) parameters in a non-disclosure agreement."
 
 After that it would be a matter of purchasing the Viscon additive from GTAT. He said the sublicense fee is intended to recoup the costs for testing and any risk absorption. "This will help get through the turbulence until the NBB (National Biodiesel Board) gets through its tests," Stewart said. "We all want a generic solution to this."
 
 Stewart stated two reasons why Biodiesel Industries' approved blend isn't that generic solution for all B20. First, extending the certification to all producers would require divulging proprietary information to the entire industry. More importantly, it would require extending the umbrella of the company's EPA registration. Finally, Biodiesel Industries paid for the testing itself and is interested in recouping that money.
 

 "Biodiesel Industries didn't indicate that they wanted to extend approval of its formulation to all B20 blends meeting ASTM specifications," Brown recently told Biodiesel Magazine. "They said it was a different formulation." Brown also said an applicant could make the certification available to all ASTM compliant B20 if that intention were indicated in their test plan. Viscon was also TCEQ-approved for use with all ASTM D 975 No. 2-diesel fuels, not one specific No. 2 brand.
 
 However, GTAT is not required to register its Viscon additive with the EPA, while Biodiesel Industries is required to do so with its biodiesel. 
 
 Stewart pointed out that for his company to allow all producers to operate under its TCEQ-certified blend, all companies would have to operate under Biodiesel Industries' EPA registration number. "In doing that, you have responsibilities for all of the fuel that comes out under that number," Stewart said. "You can imagine the problems if we opened that up and carried that responsibility blindly."
 
 Since the NBB is not a producer, the belief is that they can shape a certification that would apply for everyone. They wouldn't, by nature, be required to register under the EPA, therefore making it a different scenario than Biodiesel Industries.
 
 Besides the obvious EPA ramifications, Biodiesel Industries is attempting to recoup on its investment. "Any other company that doesn't receive state money and is using its own private money-and doesn't have industry groups yet involved-has every right to recoup minimally the time and cost invested," Stewart said. "At the same time, we don't want people taking advantage of the situation. That is why we are conscious of the current situation and being very undiscriminating and opening it up for all [through sublicensing]."
 
 Getting out of a jam
 Biodiesel Industries built and operates one plant in the TxLED-affected area. Stewart said its Denton, Texas, facility-Biodiesel Industries of 
 
 Greater Dallas Fort Worth-is ramping up production after starting up in March and is now supplying biodiesel to Willie Nelson Biodiesel Co.
 Peter Bell of Distribution Drive, a distributor for Willie Nelson Biodiesel, said that it wasn't until the first deadline was near that he realized the state lumps blenders and producers together. His company had actually quit shipping biodiesel for four days until a sublicense deal was struck with Biodiesel Industries. "We take unregulated fuel-biodiesel-and it is classified as an additive," Bell said. "We blend it with a regular fuel, therefore we are [considered] a producer."
 

 Bell credits Biodiesel Industries with saving the industry in Texas until the NBB gets its fuel blends approved.
 Bell said Distribution Drive had sold 25,000 gallons of biodiesel-blended fuel per day in the TxLED region before the deadline. Now it can only sell B20 blends. "We had B40 and B95," Bell said. "Those pumps are now bagged."
 
 Other groups are not as pleased with the sublicensing agreements. Chris Sharon of DFW Biodiesel, a Fort Worth-based biodiesel supplier, feels his company is essentially being forced out of the market without a cover-all biodiesel blend.
 
 What the future holds
 With the passing and fast-approaching dates, yet only one approved brand formulation of B20 existing for the east Texas market, Brown again indicated that the biodiesel industry has had ample time to plan ahead. "The slowdown isn't coming from our side," Brown said. "The ball is in the industry's court now."
 
 Biodiesel blenders, producers, retailers and consumers continue to await the results of NBB testing. NBB Regulatory Director Scott Hughes confirmed not only that the NBB received TCEQ approval for three separate NTRD grants to test three different biodiesel formulations, but also that the NBB will extend any approved blends out to the Texas ASTM biodiesel community at large. "That is our intent," Hughes told Biodiesel Magazine. "To certify B20 formulations using biodiesel that meets ASTM D 6751 and one of a variety of additives." He said the NBB's applications for approvals include B20 with an Octel Starreon additive, the generic cetane improver ethylhexyl nitrate, and lastly, a yet-to-be determined supplement.
 
 Both the testing and approved grants for each formulation exceed the $100,000 mark, Hughes said. The testing, done at an approved research or testing facility, must be done in accordance with TCEQ regulations, which follow EPA guidelines. This means that all testing will take place via engine dynamometer tests. Brown confirmed that consideration would not be given to the variances seen in NOx outputs when emissions results from engine tests are compared to results from chassis dynamometer tests using the identical engine and fuel combination. These reputedly intrinsic differences, which bring the variances of real-world drive cycles and their corresponding emissions profiles to the forefront, make it difficult to definitively state across the board that biodiesel blends increase NOx.
 
 Nevertheless, the NBB is pushing forward. "Our goal is to go through testing and get certified in the state of Texas," Hughes said. "But also, we'd like to submit the certification to CARB in California." For Texas, at least, Hughes projected a timeline of results that he hopes will come to fruition. "We are moving as quickly as possible to get the testing done and products certified by late this year or January."
 
 Of course, the possibility exists that none of the NBB's three formulations get certified as TxLED-approved alternative diesel fuel. "I think everybody is holding their breath on this thing," Stewart said. "Until you receive the certificate in your hand, it is not a good idea to assume anything."
 

 Containing the problem
 One could view the problems TxLED has caused the biodiesel industry as having been localized to the 110-county non-attainment zone in Texas. However, those troubles could expand.
 
 Stewart believes TxLED could lead to larger problems for the biodiesel industry if it moves beyond the Lone Star State's borders. The fear is that other non-attainment areas could adopt similar rules. "If we don't get this taken care of at the EPA level, we could see it ripple through other states that are in noncompliance," Stewart said. 
 
 Stewart said the EPA should reevaluate its biodiesel emissions data by taking into consideration more recent data. He said the goal now is to get the EPA to come out with a guidance statement and position clarifier on biodiesel.
 
 "As long as the perception that biodiesel increases NOx exists with the EPA or [other groups], we will continue to run into these issues with state regulatory groups that are trying to comply with creating mandates," Stewart said. "It's hard for them to justify the use of biodiesel if they believe it increases NOx, even by a slight amount, if the mandate is to decrease NOx by any accounts."
 
 One could also analyze the situation in Texas as not the root of an expanding air quality control crackdown on biodiesel NOx emissions, but rather as the product of an already spreading awareness of degrading ambient air conditions in populated areas-basically with Texas following the trail previously blazed by California.
 
 Another concern is the possibility of consumers forgoing the TxLED rulings, essentially rendering it ineffective. "It's a wet county/dry county thing," Sharon said. "That's what it is going to do."
 
 Sharon said it could lead to a situation where truckers or other end users buy biodiesel-blended, non-TxLED compatible fuel outside of the TxLED control area and drive through to the other side. "People can fuel up on either side and run through the eastern part of the state," Sharon said. Or consumers might buy unregulated B100-keep in mind TxLED rules only affect biodiesel blends-and mix diesel fuel with it themselves.
 
 Nonetheless, the situation surrounding Texas' air quality-and legitimate ways to improve it while sustaining the growing renewable fuels and agriculture sectors-continues to evolve. Biodiesel Magazine will continue to keep on top of the issue. n

 
 Ron Kotrba is a Biodiesel Magazine staff writer. Reach him at rkotrba@bbibiofuels.com or (701) 746-8385. Dave Nilles is associate editor of Biodiesel Magazine. Reach him at dnilles@bbibiofuels.com or (701) 746-8385.

Things aren't settled yet in the state of Texas. Biodiesel supporters are still dealing with the TxLED rulings that are directly affecting the industry in one of its largest potential markets.

TxLED

Approaching the tail end of 2005, the pace of biodiesel plant construction is at an all-time high and showing no signs of letting up. Biodiesel is reportedly in tight demand nationwide, and new projects seem to be originating almost weekly. As was the case throughout the year, keeping tabs on the industry's new and proposed plants is a serious challenge-and one that Biodiesel Magazine has eagerly embraced. 
 
 In the past 11 months, the industry has been witness to at least a couple of major international ag corporations making strong entrances into the biodiesel industry. Cargill, for example, is building a 37.5 MMgy plant in Iowa Falls, Iowa. Likewise, Archer Daniels Midland Co.-already an investor in a Missouri biodiesel plant-announced plans to build a 50 MMgy plant near its existing canola crushing facility in Velva, N.D.
 
 The flurry of building activity is not limited to new and large players, though. It includes industry pioneers that continue to expand their reach-and their capacities. As featured in Biodiesel Magazine's July issue, Ag Processing Inc. celebrated the 10th anniversary of its biodiesel plant in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa. Originally constructed in 1996, the plant has undergone several expansions, the latest of which is expected to reach 30 MMgy.
 
 Another time-tested plant, Purada Processing LLC's Lakeland, Fla., facility, is also expanding to 30 MMgy. The plant has served as an important component in biodiesel distributor World Energy's production network since 2000. Notably, the rugged multi-feedstock facility has weathered several major hurricanes in the past two years.
 
 The biodiesel industry's mainstays were joined by many new names in 2005. In fact, nearly 30 plants are currently under construction or expanding. One of the companies driving this growth-and building in a big way-is Renewable Energy Group (REG). Featured in the April/May issue of Biodiesel Magazine, REG envisions a 1 billion-gallon-per-year biodiesel market in the United States, and intends to be positioned to capitalize on the industry rapid expansion. Formed in 2002, REG builds turnkey biodiesel plants, the first of which was the 30 MMgy soy-based SoyMor facility near Albert Lea, Minn, that started up in August. Another REG plant, Western Iowa Energy LLC in Wall Lake, Iowa, is quickly moving ahead with construction. The 30 MMgy facility is expected to start up in early 2006.
 
 While the REG-built plant helped kick start the Minnesota B2 biodiesel mandate-the first of its kind in the nation-another Minnesota biodiesel plant was already preparing the state's blenders and distributors for the landmark legislation. Redwood Falls, Minn.-based FUMPA Biofuels, which was featured in the August/September issue of Biodiesel Magazine, has been operating since December 2004. 
 A third Minnesota plant, Minnesota Soybean Processors (MnSP), a 30 MMgy plant in Brewster, also started up in August. 
 
 Canada isn't far behind in the biodiesel construction boom. BIOX Corp. will complete its 16 MMgy plant in Hamilton, Ontario, in January. The new plant not only marks the beginning of the company's commercial operations, but the first step in an ambitious plan to build similar plants across North America and Europe.
 
 Some companies took a somewhat smaller approach to entering the industry. In November, Biodiesel Magazine spoke with Greenline Industries, a company whose mission is to become the world's leading manufacturer of small- to medium-scale biodiesel processors. The company built its first plant in Vallejo, Calif. The company also provided process technology and equipment for Oregon's first biodiesel plant, Seattle BioDiesel LLC. Greenline also built Southern BioDiesel LLC's 2.5 MMgy facility in Jackson, Miss.

 
 Earth Biofuels Inc. expanded its reach in 2005. Despite its name, however, the company is mainly focused on the Southeast region of the United States. Earth Biofuels is currently building a 10 MMgy plant in Durant, Okla., which is expected to be operational by the time this issue hits the streets. The company plans on building a retail distribution network including 170 pumps within the next year.
 
 Several states got their first taste of biodiesel production in 2005. Maine, Oklahoma, Oregon, New Mexico and Ohio all saw facilities start production. Nationwide, well over 100 plants are currently in the production, construction, expansion or proposed stages. And there is no sign of an industry slowdown.
 
 The National Biodiesel Board recently suggested that U.S. biodiesel production in 2005 could reach 75 million gallons-triple the 2004 total. With the amount of capacity that came on line in the past year-and the amount expected to come on line in 2006-that shouldn't come as a surprise. 
 
 Dave Nilles is associate editor of Biodiesel Magazine. Reach him at <a target="_blank" href="http://">dnilles@bbibiofuels.com </a>or (701) 746-8385.

With agri-giants and small companies alike jumping into the biodiesel game, new and proposed 
plants were virtually popping out of the woodwork in 2005. At the same time, 
a handful of existing producers launched expansions.

If There Was a Time to Build …

In any fast-growing industry, it is common to see emerging products and technologies compete with tried-and-true technological staples. The biodiesel industry is no exception, and when new, competitive ways of producing biodiesel rival companies whose primary focus is making, selling, providing or servicing the proven and established equipment, materials or intellectual properties used in current production processes, what's new is seldom accepted with open arms. Nonetheless, as an independent magazine with a mission to objectively relay the latest industry information, Biodiesel Magazine is committed to exploring and relaying these breakthroughs whenever possible. The publication's 2005 coverage of process technology and science illustrates this mission. 
 
 Accessing quality, providing quality 
 In early 2005, shortly after the American JOBS Creation Act of 2004 went into effect, Biodiesel Magazine published, "The Right Stuff," an article summing up the offerings of several biodiesel process technology vendors, from equipment suppliers to those selling turnkey process technology systems-a sort of "Who's Who" of biodiesel process technology and equipment. In this February feature, 13 different equipment and technology providers were squarely summed up. "The Right Stuff" contains valuable synopses laying out which companies offer what-including contact information. For a group looking to get into the biodiesel production business, Biodiesel Magazine's February 2005 issue is a place to start. 
 
 Moving from providers of quality equipment and process technology to providing quality fuel, BQ-9000 was in focus last spring. The April/May issue of Biodiesel Magazine featured "Getting with the Program," an article on the National Biodiesel Accreditation Commission's quality control program, BQ-9000. 
 

 Peter Cremer North America in Cincinnati, Ohio, was the first certified BQ-9000 biodiesel producer, and the only producer able to tout the BQ-9000 certification label when the article was written. Since then, only one other biodiesel producer, Ralston, Iowa-based West Central, has gained BQ-9000 bragging rights. 
 
 Adsorbent biodiesel purification, glycerin talk
 In March, The Dallas Group's trademarked Magnesol process was profiled. It's a magnesium silicate treatment using an adsorptive purification process that's quick and inexpensive. "Trademarked by The Dallas Group, the Dry Wash method has generated a large amount of interest from producers utilizing all types of feedstocks and in all parts of the world," said Bryan Bertram, The Dallas Group's industrial sales director. "Perhaps the most often cited advantage of the Dry Wash method using Magnesol is the ease of use and speed of the treatment cycle."
 
 Glycerin markets and technologies were interesting topics for the August/September article in Biodiesel Magazine, titled, "The Glycerin Factor." Associate editor Dave Nilles laid out the current scenario with glycerin-market saturation and low prices, yet so many uses in play and under development for the glycerin molecule. The article covered new and common uses for glycerin, some of which include researchers and companies manipulating glycerin to make antifreeze, omega-3 fatty acids, succinic acids, succinic salts and hydrogen via aqueous phase reforming. The quality of glycerin--both crude and refined-is key to standardizing the processes needed to refine or use the abundantly practical material. 
 
 Alternative process technology
 Over the past year, Biodiesel Magazine featured two articles on potentially revolutionary-and soon to be, if not already, competitive-technologies for the production process of refining biodiesel. 
 
 As stated in "The In Situ Method," published in Biodiesel Magazine's June 2005 issue, USDA biochemist Michael Haas' mission has been to reduce biodiesel production costs. The idea behind his in situ conversion is utilizing virtually any lipid-bearing material to make biodiesel, rather than using oils and an expensive hexane extraction step. 
 
 In June, only one small feed trial had been run using the feed meal left over after the in situ conversion, proving the nutritional worth of these meals is important for economical feasibility. "We seek collaborators to help test any of the meals exiting the in situ reaction," Haas recently said. "What we need is funding to support that work and to help pay for running the meals through the in situ process." Anyone interested in supporting this groundbreaking work is urged to contact the USDA Agricultural Research Service's Eastern Regional Research Center. 
 
 "A Catalyst for Change," printed in the August/September issue, brought pioneering catalysis for biodiesel production to the forefront. As an alternative to using sodium methoxide, heterogeneous catalysts would help in separating the catalyst from the reaction product and eliminate sodium deposits in the fuel. A worthwhile find would be the development of a solid catalyst that could handle both acidic and basic functions, taking both the free fatty acids and the triglycerides to methyl ester-hood. Lastly, the article looked at Axens' Esterfip-H solid catalyst, which is going commercial after years of research. The heterogeneous catalyst will be used in a 50 MMgy biodiesel plant under construction in Sete, France, for Diester Industries. n 

 
 Ron Kotrba is a Biodiesel Magazine staff writer. Reach him at <a href="mailto:rkotrba@bbibiofuels.com">rkotrba@bbibiofuels.com</a> or (701) 746-8385.

As the biodiesel industry grows, so too will the technologies and peripheral sciences 
that support it. Sharing these advancements with biofuels advocates around 
the world is a crucial part of Biodiesel Magazine's mission.

Getting Technical

2005 was quite a year for biodiesel cold flow and emissions, considering several issues were showcased across various states that highlighted both topics. For instance, Minnesota's statewide B2 mandate went into effect Sept. 29, on the edge of winter's encroachment in the bitterly cold North Country. In preparation for this landmark development, a cold flow consortium was formed to study blending practices in such low temperatures. At the same time, a less positive development was taking place 1,200 miles south of the Land of 10,000 Lakes, where the state of Texas had implemented the Texas Low Emission Diesel (TxLED) regulation. TxLED disallows the sale of blended biodiesel in the 110-county non-attainment zone housing 80 percent of the state's population unless the state certifies formulations based on NOx reduction comparable to TxLED fuels. In 2005, Biodiesel Magazine took an objective look at the issues behind these events. 
 
 Dealing with the cold
 Published in the Oct. 2005 issue, "Keeping the Flow" spotlighted how the industry is addressing the cold weather performance of biodiesel blends. Conventional diesel fuel has its own hurdles, possessing cloud points that vary just above or below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. To lower the cloud point temperature, blenders mix No. 1 diesel with kerosene. Thus, in the winter months, additional measures to address cold flow aren't necessary for biodiesel blends up to 20 percent. Caution is needed in the storage and transportation of B100 prior to and during blending.
 
 The article covered many different ways to protect neat biodiesel from crystallizing and gelling. Using additives to suppress the pour point of biodiesel is a common approach to keep the fuel flowing. Another approach is to cool the biodiesel down to a certain temperature, remove the solid, saturated fractions that have gelled, leaving the unsaturated, flow-friendly remainder for cold temperature use. Fuel composition, or the concentration of saturated esters versus unsaturated esters, is the biggest determinant to the cold flow characteristics of the fuel. 
 
 Tallow-based biodiesel has the highest saturated content while virgin vegetable oil-based biodiesel has the lowest, according to most industry experts. The producer's choice of reagent alcohol in production also comes into play. 
 
 The main conclusion from the cold flow consortium's study was that biodiesel must be kept 10 degrees above its cloud point to successfully blend with diesel without shock crystallization. If, while storing and blending B100, the distribution chain can satisfy that finding, then the rest should flow nicely. 

 
 Feel it in the air
 In June, July and November, Biodiesel Magazine ran comprehensive feature articles on NOx control strategies, TxLED and a wide-angled view of biodiesel emissions, respectively. 
 
 "Knocking Out NOx" focused on why the emission of NOx is an issue-assuming biodiesel blends increase NOx, which is inconclusive and dependent on many variables-and what technological advancements exist now, will soon be available or will be federally mandated to reduce NOx. 
 
 Additives are readily available in today's marketplace to reduce NOx. Most additives work by increasing cetane. Higher cetane gives the fuel better ignition quality, lower ignition delay and lower combustion temperatures to ultimately reduce NOx emissions. Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) systems also help reduce "hot spots" of concentrated fuel on the pistons, which cause higher temperatures and higher NOx output. Retarding the engine timing also reduces NOx. Engine management techniques in conjunction with exhaust gas recirculation systems, diesel particulate filters, and either a NOx trap or a selective catalytic reduction device, have shown NOx reductions up to 90 percent. 
 
 "Houston, Do We Have a Problem," printed in June, detailed Texas' environmental commission's regulation outlawing biodiesel blends in the state's heavily populated 110-county non-attainment zone. For a rundown and update on TxLED, see the feature article in this issue on page 30. 
 
 "Emissions Still Matter," an article printed just last month, covered the four main components to diesel and biodiesel exhaust: NOx, particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Ultimately, NOx was revisited to say that, depending on what real-world driving conditions a vehicle sees, the dynamometer test chosen could impact accuracies of results. Biodiesel is commonly touted as having great carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon reductions compared to diesel, but high percentages are less significant when base numbers are already low. According to industry experts, the greatest emissions benefit that comes from using biodiesel-outside of the global warming argument about biodiesel not releasing nearly as much fossil carbon-is the big reduction (percentage and actual) of carcinogenic PM emissions, or black soot. It is this benefit of biodiesel that will play an important role for older diesel trucks and buses-and the environment-once the new, clean-diesel vehicles hit the streets in 2007. 
 
 Ron Kotrba is a Biodiesel Magazine staff writer. Reach him at <a href="mailto:rkotrba@bbibiofuels.com ">rkotrba@bbibiofuels.com </a>or (701) 746-8385.

Knowing is half the battle, and Biodiesel Magazine put out at least four feature articles in 2005 on biodiesel emissions and cold flow that armed readers with valuable, objective information.

December 2005

Business Briefs

Biodiesel books hit the shelves

New cetane measurement tool available

Alcoa receives environmental award

Biofuel Brokers finalizes sales agreement

Pennsylvania co-op receives green award

Bunge announces European biodiesel joint venture

NewGen merges with Prolong

Piedmont Biofuels wins clean technology award

Pacific Biodiesel wins BlueSky Award

UTEK completes technology transfer to Kwikpower

FUMPA receives Minnesota business award

Philippine Biodiesel Association formed

Hartwig joins RFA

Glatz joins Biofuel Brokers

Columns

Year in review: NBB helps pave the way for our energy independence, economy and environment

Featured

Harvesting Fields of Fuel

TxLED

If There Was a Time to Build …

Getting Technical

A Good Fueling

December 2005.css-7jxktu{position:absolute;bottom:0px;left:0px;right:0px;height:3px;border-radius:3px;background-color:var(--chakra-colors-brandBlack);}

Business Briefs

Biodiesel books hit the shelves

New cetane measurement tool available

Alcoa receives environmental award

Biofuel Brokers finalizes sales agreement

Pennsylvania co-op receives green award

Bunge announces European biodiesel joint venture

NewGen merges with Prolong

Piedmont Biofuels wins clean technology award

Pacific Biodiesel wins BlueSky Award

UTEK completes technology transfer to Kwikpower

FUMPA receives Minnesota business award

Philippine Biodiesel Association formed

Hartwig joins RFA

Glatz joins Biofuel Brokers

Columns

Year in review: NBB helps pave the way for our energy independence, economy and environment

Featured

Harvesting Fields of Fuel

TxLED

If There Was a Time to Build …

Getting Technical

A Good Fueling

December 2005