Frequently Asked Questions - Toxicity

Is biodiesel exhaust safer than petroleum diesel?
Scientific research confirms that biodiesel exhaust has a less harmful impact on human health than petroleum diesel fuel. Biodiesel emissions have decreased levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and nitrited PAH compounds that have been identified as potential cancer causing compounds. Test results indicate PAH compounds were reduced by 75 to 85 percent, with the exception of benzo(a)anthracene, which was reduced by roughly 50 percent. Targeted nPAH compounds were also reduced dramatically with biodiesel fuel, with 2-nitrofluorene and 1-nitropyrene reduced by 90 percent, and the rest of the nPAH compounds reduced to only trace levels.

Is it safe to operate an ethanol still on my property?
Yes, but you must be careful. Anytime you are working with a volatile substance, such as 95% ethanol, you will need to exercise caution by remembering the following:

• Do not, under any circumstances, allow young children or pets anywhere near a still in operation.
• Be sure that your tank fittings are properly secured, so that you will have no leakage of ethanol or flammable fumes.
• Always operate your still in a well-ventilated area.

Does ethanol blended with gasoline require special handling?
In special circumstances yes, the fuel marketer should pump any accumulated water from the storage tank, and add a final filter to the dispensing hose before using an ethanol blend for the first time. Small engines such as chainsaws and outboard motors are susceptible to water contamination, so it is also wise to check them for the presence of water and remove all water before adding an ethanol blend. Adhering to these handling requirements will assure optimum performance of ethanol-blended fuel.