The effects of long-term storage on the cold flow properties and viscosity of canola-based biodiesel

ABSTRACTIn this study, the effects of long-term storage on the viscosity and cold flow properties of biodiesel were investigated. Canola oil with a high content of unsaturated fatty acid was used to produce biodiesel in the experiments. Biodiesel sample was kept in ordinary atmospheric storage conditions for 6 months. The samples were taken from the biodiesel feedstock in every 30 days and cold flow properties and kinematic viscosity of the samples were measured. During 6-month storage, no significant deterioration was observed in cold flow properties and kinematic viscosity of biodiesel. Additionally, the same pour point (PP) and cold filter plugging point (CFPP) values (−11°C) were obtained during this period.