The push for cleaner alternatives in the transportation sector has prompted many countries to blend traditional fossil-based petrodiesel with biodiesel, primarily consisting of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME).
This aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote a more sustainable energy landscape. In Europe, the sale of such biodiesel blends has been ongoing for over 15 years, regulated under stringent standards to ensure quality and consistency.
Compliance monitoring
Biodiesel, derived from renewable resources such as vegetable oils or animal fats, is regarded as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional diesel. However, the integration of FAME in diesel blends is not without regulation. The permissible concentrations of FAME in petrodiesel are governed by various national and international standards, including those outlined in DIN EN specifications. These regulations are crucial for maintaining engine performance, preventing fuel system problems, and minimising harmful emissions.
To ensure compliance, the FAME content in blended diesel must be monitored meticulously throughout its journey from the refinery or storage facility to the fuel station. Regular checks are mandated to confirm that the biodiesel content remains within the allowable limits, safeguarding the integrity of the fuel while adhering to environmental standards.
Efficiently quantifying FAME in diesel blends is essential for compliance and performance, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) has emerged as a pivotal tool in this process. The Lyza 7000 FTIR spectrometer, in particular, offers a rapid and accurate solution for analysing biodiesel content without the need for extensive sample preparation.
By leveraging the capabilities of the Lyza 7000, fuel distributors and testing laboratories can monitor FAME concentrations quickly and accurately. This is particularly valuable during transport, where immediate results are essential to meet regulatory requirements and ensure product quality. The efficiency of FTIR not only enhances compliance but also contributes to operational efficiency, reducing delays associated with laboratory analyses.
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Key Benefits of Anton Paar’s Lyza FTIR:
Anton Paar’s Lyza FTIR sets a new standard in infrared spectroscopy with several outstanding features:
- Unsurpassed sensitivity thanks to best in class signal-to-noise ratio, advanced detector and cutting-edge interferometer design
- Small standalone footprint with touchscreen interface
- Unlimited samples with its Modular design
- Avoid errors with Guided workflows and built in best practice prompts
- Simple one touch operation for complex measurements
- No sample prep required
- Quick Oil Condition Monitoring (OCM) using FTIR spectroscopy in under 45 seconds
- Standards-compliant analysis according to ASTM E2412 and more
- In-service lubricant FTIR analysis out-of-the box
- Easy spectral characterisation, even for less experienced users, with one press of a button
With these features, the Lyza FTIR combines precision and efficiency in a comprehensive solution for modern analytical needs.
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