What does B20 mean?
B20 is a diesel fuel blend that contains 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel. It is used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and cut reliance on fossil fuels, while remaining compatible with many diesel engines.
Definition and what the letters signify
The “B” stands for biodiesel, and the number 20 indicates the percentage by volume of biodiesel in the blend. Biodiesel is produced from fats and oils through a chemical process called transesterification and can be made from natural feedstocks such as soybean, canola, used cooking oil, or other waste and non-food oils. In practice, B20 is treated as a “drop-in” fuel for many diesel engines, meaning it can be used in engines designed for diesel without major modifications, though manufacturer recommendations vary.
Standards and compatibility
Standards and regional practices govern how B20 is produced and tested, ensuring performance and quality. This section explains the main benchmarks and what they mean for users.
Before listing the standards and compatibility points, here is the essential context: B20 blends are defined and tested to ensure they meet quality and performance expectations, allowing many diesel engines to operate without issues when using approved biodiesel.
- B20 means a fuel blend with 20% biodiesel by volume and 80% conventional diesel.
- In the United States, the blend is commonly regulated and specified under ASTM D7467 (B6–B20), while B100 biodiesel quality is governed by ASTM D6751.
- In Europe and other regions, biodiesel quality is often governed by the EN 14214 standard for FAME (fatty acid methyl esters) biodiesel, with blending practices aligned to national regulations.
- As a result, B20 is designed to be a “drop-in” fuel for many modern diesel engines, minimizing the need for engine modification when using biodiesel that meets the relevant standard.
Industry practice varies by region and vehicle warranty terms, but the general aim is to provide a reliable, renewable fuel option that can be used in many diesel-powered vehicles and equipment.
Benefits of using B20
The following are commonly cited advantages of adopting B20, particularly for fleets and regions pursuing lower carbon emissions and renewables integration.
- Lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions relative to conventional petroleum diesel, depending on the feedstock used to produce biodiesel.
- Reduced tailpipe emissions of particulate matter, hydrocarbons, and sulfur oxides, contributing to cleaner air in some scenarios.
- Improved lubricity of diesel fuel, which can help protect fuel systems and injectors in older engines that suffer from poor lubricity in ultra-low-sulfur diesel.
- Support for renewable energy goals and domestic biofuel industries by increasing demand for waste oils and other sustainable feedstocks.
- Potential energy-diversification benefits and compatibility with a wide network of fueling stations that offer biodiesel blends.
Above all, the use of B20 is often framed as a practical step toward cleaner, renewable energy in transportation while preserving engine compatibility in many modern diesel vehicles.
Limitations and considerations
- Engine and warranty compatibility: While many modern diesel engines can run on B20, some warranties or manufacturer guidance may restrict use of biodiesel blends. Always check the owner’s manual or consult the manufacturer.
- Cold weather performance: Biodiesel blends can gel or thicken at low temperatures, which can affect starting and fuel filtration in colder climates. Local winterization and storage practices matter.
- Fuel economy: Biodiesel generally has a slightly lower energy content than petroleum diesel, which can lead to a modest drop in miles per gallon depending on driving conditions and feedstock.
- Fuel quality and moisture: Biodiesel is hygroscopic and can absorb water, which can promote microbial growth or corrosion if storage tanks are not properly maintained and water-free.
- Fuel-system compatibility: Some older rubber hoses, seals, and gaskets may be more sensitive to biodiesel blends; compatible materials and maintenance are important.
- Availability and purity: Ensure you source B20 from reputable suppliers and verify that the biodiesel meets applicable standards (e.g., ASTM D7467/D6751 in the US, EN 14214 in Europe).
These considerations highlight that, while B20 can be a practical choice for many users, due diligence—especially around vehicle documentation, fuel quality, and local climate—is essential for a smooth transition.
How to use B20 safely and effectively
If you are considering using B20, follow these practical steps to minimize risks and maximize benefits.
- Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or warranty terms to confirm compatibility with biodiesel blends up to 20% (B20).
- Verify that the fueling station or supplier offers B20 that meets the appropriate standard for your region (for example, ASTM D7467 in the US or EN 14214 in Europe).
- Use B20 from a reputable supplier to ensure fuel quality and proper storage practices, including moisture management in storage tanks.
- If you are switching from a lower biodiesel blend (like B5 or B10), monitor the vehicle for any changes in performance or fuel-filter requirements during the initial weeks of use.
- Maintain regular vehicle maintenance as recommended, and be attentive to any changes in fuel system performance, filter clogging, or unusual engine behavior.
- Keep in mind that some warranties or service agreements may require adherence to fuel guidelines; document approvals if necessary when using B20 in a vehicle not explicitly certified for biodiesel blends.
Following these steps helps ensure that the transition to B20 supports both performance and environmental goals without compromising reliability.
Summary
In summary, B20 is a diesel fuel blend consisting of 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel, designed to lower lifecycle emissions and support renewable fuel use. It is defined and regulated by standards such as ASTM D7467 (US) and EN 14214 (EU), and is compatible with many modern diesel engines. However, compatibility with warranties, cold-weather performance, and fuel-quality considerations require attention. For fleets and individual users alike, B20 represents a pragmatic pathway to greener diesel—provided that owners verify guidance from manufacturers, supply sources, and regional standards.
