So, What's so great about
Soybean Biodiesel?
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Well, something's got to be great about soybean biodiesel, because 59% of biodiesel is produced from soybean oil! Here are the benefits and disadvantages I found...
 Benefits and Facts of Soybean Based Biodiesel:• The biodiesel
tax incentive
has been extended through 2011 • The National Biodiesel Board granted the Danforth Center $1.2 million to fund three years of research to increase the oil content in the seeds. • In the year 2000, soybeans and corn were the largest U.S. crops. • The soy meal produced from crushing is used for food. In fact, soybean crush is currently driven by demand for the meal, NOT the oil. • Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences published a report that says soybean biodiesel produces 93% more energy than is used to produce it. • It deceases greenhouse gas emissions by 41% • It produces an average of 48 gallons per acre. • The soybeans have 20% oil content.
And Some Disadvantages: • In 2005 a bushel of soybeans was under $5, and now in 2011 it is nearing $16. • Producing biodiesel from soybean oil has a net energy loss of 32% according to a study done by Berkley.edu. • It deceases greenhouse gas emissions by 41% • It produces an average of 48 gallons per acre. • The soybeans have 20% oil content.
Growing Conditions: • Ideal growing temperatures have a mean of 68-86 degrees F, (20-30 C). • Growth is significantly stunted when temperatures are lower than 68F (20C) or higher than 104F (40C). • It takes 80-120 days from the time the seeds are sewed till harvest time
For additional information check out these great
soybean graphs and statistics!
(Opens in a new window).
Return from 'Soybean Biodiesel' to 'All Biodiesel Crops'
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