抄録
A study on the performance of biodiesel fuels on in-service diesel vehicles in Hong Kong was conducted. Two vehicles were employed to run on the road with neat biodiesel for three months to investigate the performance and durability of biodiesel fuels on motor vehicles. A compatibility test was also performed in order to assess the compatibility of the rubber fuel hoses with biodiesel. Results of the on-road durability test revealed a small decrease in maximum engine power but an obvious reduction in smoke opacity was observed after switching to 100% biodiesel. It is also found that biodiesel generated irreversible effects on some plastic elastomers, including swelling, seepage and reduction in strength. These phenomena were particularly serious for neat biodiesel application and precautions measures must be taken to enhance its safety.
