***Latest Batch***

[RIngrey]

My latest batch of Biodiesel was made from Soild Oil that Titrated @ 3. I reacted the oil and had minimal fallout with the 27/3 test and so washed the Biodiesel and dried. The Oil passed the 50:50 shake test with no soap formation and I dried for 2hrs until the Bio was crystal clear. Like normal I always put a sample to one side to monitor the Biodiesel under climate change. I noticed today that the Oil had clouded over and also the formation of small white beads on the bottom of the jar. These beads were only present in small quantities but my question to you is this: What are the small beads, Soap or HDME's? I'm still running it in my car as I use Biodiesel in a 50:50 mix with regular diesel. As I'm still learning about the whole process I'm keen to find out what the contaminants are that are visable in my sample.

[Tony]

Most likely to be HMPEs.

I leave my bio to settle for a week and by then all that stuff drops to the bottom.

I also leave the decanted bio in its 25l drums overnight to give anything else a chance to thermally cycle out before it goes in the car (I've been bitten before!)

[RIngrey]

Is Biodiesel not hydroscopic. I take it that your settling tank is sealed?

[Tony]

My settle drum is open, never had a problem.