Ultrasound 'can maintain biofuel composition'

High-intensity ultrasound waves could hold the key to maintaining biofuel composition in a stable and usable form, according to scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

At a temperature of around 41 degrees F (5 degrees C) precipitates begin to form in biodiesel, changing the physical composition of the eco-friendly fuel.

They appear in the form of solids and can cause problems for machinery by blocking filters and plugging lines.

However, they can prove difficult to deal with as they are invisible.

Now researchers at the Department of Energy's biofuel laboratory have developed a means of removing precipitates using high-intensity ultrasound.

The longitudinal vibrations of the high-intensity sound waves can remove existing precipitates and prevent the formation of further solids, helping to keep the biofuel composition in a usable state.

Research at the biofuel laboratory was carried out by Mike Kass, with the procedure co-invented by Maggie Connatser and Sam Lewis.