How long can you store biodiesel for?

Regardless of storage method, all fuels stored over a long period of time will degrade. This is particularly true of diesel, which can be stored from anywhere between 3 and 12 months, sometimes longer when the correct additives and preservatives are added. Biodiesel fuels are less predictable than diesel fuels, with five main factors influencing the amount of time they stay fresh for in storage – microbe contamination, light, storage temperature, oxygen exposure, and feedstock.

Microbial contamination is a prevalent issue in biodiesel storage, as biodiesel provides an excellent environment for microbes to feed. Microbes may be introduced to fuel any time it is contaminated by water, meaning it’s important to keep your storage tank secure, and your fuel dry.

In addition to this, it’s important to avoid unnecessary oxygen exposure to prevent a loss of oxidative stability.