Four ASTM International standards that specify biodiesel have achieved final ASTM approval and will proceed toward publication and availability, which is anticipated for mid-October. The new and newly revised specifications will be used in engine design, to include in bid and purchasing contracts or to check fuel quality at the pump.

The standards include the following:

ASTM D975-08a, Specification for Diesel Fuel Oils, now includes requirements for up to 5 percent biodiesel;

ASTM D6751-08, Specification for Biodiesel Fuel Blend Stock (B100) for Middle Distillate Fuels, now includes a requirement for cold soak filterability;

ASTM D7467-08, Specification for Diesel Fuel Oil, Biodiesel Blend (B6 to 20), covers blends between 6 (B6) and 20 (B20) percent biodiesel for on- and off-road diesel.

In addition, D396-08b, Specification for Fuel Oils, now adds biodiesel blend specifications up to 5 percent by volume (B5).

As defined in the proposed standards, biodiesel is a "fuel comprised of mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats, designated B100." Based on extensive testing and research, the specifications detail requirements for the fuel characteristics as well as the relevant standard test methods to use for each.

ASTM International Committee D02 on Petroleum Products and Lubricants developed the standards, which are the direct responsibility of groups within Subcommittee D02.E on Burner, Diesel, Non-Aviation Gas Turbine, and Marine Fuels. Petroleum corporations, biodiesel manufacturers, engine companies, researchers and academics participated in the standards' development.

ASTM International standards can be purchased from ASTM Customer Service (phone: 610-832-9585; https://www.astm.org/contact/), or at www.astm.org.

Release #8069/Sept08