Whether as an admixture or in its pure form, the fuel is able to supplement or partially replace conventional diesel without problems.
Neste guarantees that every gallon sold meets ASTM D975 and EN 15940 specifications in compliance with OEM standards.
Chemically, it entails direct catalytic hydrodeoxygenation (hydrogenolysis) of plant oils, which are triglycerides, into the corresponding alkanes and propane.
Catalytic isomerization into branched alkanes is then done to adjust the cloud point in order to meet winter operability requirements.
As it is chemically identical to ideal conventional diesel, it requires no modification or special precautions for the engine.
[4][5] Two larger refineries, with annual production of 0.8 million tons both, were brought on stream in Singapore and Rotterdam in 2010 and 2011, respectively.
[13][14] Also note that categorising Palm Fatty Acid Distillate, PFAD, as waste is controversial since it can be used to make e.g. soap, candles and animal fodder.
Greenpeace noted RSPO is voluntary organization and claimed government regulation in palm oil producing countries, such as Indonesia, cannot be relied on because of political corruption.
However, rapeseed is a slower-growing, cold-climate source with lesser carbon-binding potential than the oil palm, making emissions from cultivation and transport proportionally more severe.