How to make biodiesel - part 2 Safety considerations when making biodiesel
In part 1 of this series we gave an
overview of what making biodiesel involves, including the main stages of the process and the equipment needed.
In this, the second part of the series we will look at some of the safety precautions you need to take and be aware of before you even begin to start making biodiesel.
Chemicals used for making biodiesel
Methanol is a skin irritant and can cause blindness. It should not be ingested or come into contact with eyes of you or anyone else that might be watching or involved in the process. Methanol is also flammable.
Lye is also a skin irritant.
Protective Clothing
Because of the above it is always advisable to wear appropriate clothing i.e. long sleeved top and full-length trousers rather than shorts and a string vest. You should also wear safety goggles and protective gloves to help prevent splashes / spills harming you. If you are handling large storage / mixing vessels than reinforced footwear is advisable to help protect against dropping heavy objects on your feet.
Local regulations
Be sure to check with your local fire department for any guides and / or regulations on a) storing the raw ingredients i.e. storing of large amounts of methanol and b) making / storing biodiesel. Things to consider may include proximity to human dwellings, storage containers, availability of fire extinguishers capable of handling oil based fires etc.
Mixing and storage vessels
You will require a number of containers / vessels for making and storing your biodiesel in. Make sure the containers you are using do not react with the chemicals you are using and are capable of storing such chemicals for a prolonged period of time. Make sure the containers you are using are as tough as possible when it comes to fire resistance, taking knocks etc and that they are securely positioned / fixed. You don't want your half made batch of biodiesel spilling out across your workshop.
All the above points are essential things to consider before making your own biodiesel and should stand you in good stead for the process. Even if following all safety precautions, accidents can happen. The content of this site is provided on an 'information only' basis. We are not recommending anything and cannot be held responsible for any accident or loss that occurs as a result of using the information on this site.
We hope these safety precautions don't scare the pants off you. Whilst these chemicals should be handled with care and respect they are not as hazardous as some.
Remember the chemicals used in making biodiesel are readily available in the high street. Lye is commonly used for cleaning drains and methanol is commonly used for powering remote controlled toy aeroplanes as well as providing fuel for fondues or barbeques.
In the next (third) part of this series on how to make your own biodiesel we will start to actually make biodiesel.
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