Assessment of Storage Characteristics and Requirement of Palm Oil Biodiesel for Marine Diesel Engines

The utilization of palm oil biodiesel in marine diesel engines has faced issues related to blockage within the engine system. This study aims to evaluate the compatibility of palm oil biodiesel at various storage temperatures. This research monitored the compatibility of palm oil biodiesel samples in the range of B30, B35, and B50 percentages in the condition at room temperature and 40 °C. The samples were stored at various storage durations for 30 min and 6 h, and the properties of the palm oil biodiesel were investigated. The research involved viscosity and density measurement based on ASTM D6751 and EN 14214. Additionally, an evaluation of precipitation characteristics using filter paper as the analysis medium is proposed. Based on the investigation of compatibility tests, it could be concluded that the samples with 40 °C with both storage periods met the stringent biodiesel specifications and were compatible with the engines. The result showed the understanding that higher blending percentages and longer storage durations can lead to fuel gelling when exposed to low temperatures. Consequently, effective treating and modifying the fuel system to maintain the palm oil biodiesel in the range of 40 °C was identified as the solution for preventing clogging or blockage in the engine system.