High quality biodiesel from jatropha (a nonfood source) by way of the partial hydrogenation technique is goal of the joint collaboration between Thailand and Japan. Key collaborators in this project are MTEC/NSTDA & TISTR (Ministry of Science and Technology), KMUTNB of Thailand and AIST & Waseda University of Japan. The highly efficient biodiesel production process is desired to warrant commercial use with long term sustainability.
MTEC has an important role in the testing process where 10% of this high quality biodiesel is mixed with regular diesel; this is known as B10. The testing will be done in a light duty vehicle for 50,000 kilometers of various terrains. This includes city driving and long distance driving. Any problems identified during the test drives will be collected and solutions sought. In parallel, separate tests will also be performed on the engine parts at MTEC laboratory for 500 hours.
The engine wear and tear, residues generated and fuel consumption will be periodically monitored and evaluated among testing partners including Tripetch Isuzu and PTT. In addition, the engine wear and tear from contaminated metals from the lubricant will also be analyzed. Engine parts and materials that interface with the fuel liquid will be monitored for effectiveness and appropriateness after the driving test to assess the impact. The data collected will valuably assist the research team for commercial viability of using this high quality biodiesel in the future.