Canola As an on-Farm Biofuel Feedstock: Summary of on-Going Research at Colorado State University's Engines and Energy Conversion Laboratory.

This presentation will discuss recent research at Colorado State University’s Engines and Energy Conversion Laboratory (EECL) using canola and other oilseeds as biofuel feedstock. The EECL is a unique research and education program at CSU with emphasis on engines, fuels, and energy conversion technology. The 100,000 ft² laboratory has extensive facilities for testing of engines ranging from 1 hp to 2,500 hp. It is the only university laboratory in North America with capabilities for experimental research on large engines. The EECL’s focus in this area has been on farm-scale fuel production and use. Farm use of distillate fuel oil is significant, especially in the agricultural centers of the U.S. For example, farm use represents more than 20% of total fuel consumption in Iowa. The prices paid by farmers this fuel and other energy-based inputs nearly tripled from 2002-2005, and continues to steadily increase. In response to these increased fuel input costs, several farmers have decided to grow and produce their own biofuels on the farm. This gives them greater control over one of their largest input costs. Farm-scale fuel production also allows a farmer to avoid retail margins and transportation costs of both the crop and fuel. Research at the EECL is exploring new biofuel feedstocks and also new fuel pathways for oilseeds. The presentation will summarize recent and current research on straight vegetable oil, triglyceride blends, biodiesel, and renewable diesel engine research. EECL’s research in this area has included engine performance, emissions, and durability.