Improving the Carbon Footprint of Long-Haul Trucks Running on First-Generation Biodiesel

Lowering carbon emissions from road-based transport is required to achieve climate targets. In addition to passenger cars, long-haul trucks contribute more than one-third of on-road generated carbon emissions. Therefore, this sector has great potential to reduce such emissions. Numerous options including electrified drivetrains are possible.

Nevertheless, the existing fleet of trucks powered by conventional diesel engines also needs to be addressed. Additionally, a ramp-up of green electricity and charging infrastructure is required to ensure carbon-neutral and reliable transport.

Heavy-duty diesel engines are typically suitable for use with first-generation biofuels. However, operational restrictions, such as shorter oil drain intervals are mandatory for users. In the case at hand, the oil change was mandatory after only 30,000 km when pure biodiesel (B100) was used instead of 120,000 km when operating on conventional, mineral oil-based diesel. These boundaries counter efforts to lower carbon emissions because operators are reluctant to adopt such fuels to mitigate operational constraints, and the disposal of an additional amount of lubricating oil results in the release of avoidable carbon emissions.

This work describes a trial conducted to extend the oil drain intervals of long-haul trucks. The oil condition of the four vehicles running on biodiesel was closely monitored by oil analysis. The usual parameters for oil analysis, such as viscosity, wear metals, water content, fuel dilution, oil oxidation, and nitration, were monitored in this study. The study was concluded when an oil lifetime of 90,000 km was reached and confirmed by a second run.

The obtained data were compared to those of a reference vehicle running on conventional diesel fuel. The conclusion was that no adverse effects on moving engine parts were present at each stage of drawing samples of oil and at the end (completion) of tests.

The possible threefold increase in the oil drain interval helps reduce CO₂ emissions, thus aiding in achieving climate goals.