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Biodiesel – Ultrasonic remedy
A significant barrier to greater use of biodiesel could be blasted away with a proprietary approach developed by a team of researchers led by Mike Kass of Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Energy and Transportation Science Division. By using a high-intensity dose of ultrasonic energy, Kass and colleagues have demonstrated that they can remove or prevent the formation of precipitates, or solids, in biofuels. “Biodiesel forms invisible precipitates at temperatures approaching 41 degrees Fahrenheit,” Kass said. “These precipitates cause plugging of filters and lines and are one of the leading concerns associated with expanded use of biodiesel.” Co-inventors are Sam Lewis and Maggie Connatser.
