According to ORYXE, the proprietary ingredient in the biodiesel additive is biodegradable, non-toxic and compatible with fossil fuels.

The emissions tests that supported the approval under the TxLED program were conducted at West Virginia University Engine and Emissions Research Laboratory, an EPA-recognized facility, and were funded in part by the state of Texas through a grant from the TCEQ.

The TxLED program was launched in November of 2005 to reduce NO_x emissions from diesel exhaust in 110 counties, including the metropolitan areas of Houston, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Austin and San Antonio. TCEQ has in the past proposed bans on biodiesel blends due to concerns over an increase in NO_x emissions it associates with biodiesel use. (Earlier post.)

TCEQ bases its stance largely on a 2002 EPA report showing a two-percent increase in NO_x emissions for B20. However, a recent study by the US Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) concluded that vehicles using a B20 biodiesel blend (20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel) do not produce an increase in nitrogen oxide (NO_x) emissions. (Earlier post.)

The test results on the ORYXE additive at WVU showed a 3.8% increase in NO_x from the addition of 20% biodiesel to standard EPA diesel. Use of the additive brought NO_x emissions closer to the base fuel level, although not quite equivalent.

Texas is one of the largest biodiesel producers in the nation with 15 existing commercial production plants and several more under construction. According to the National Biodiesel Board, the state’s total annual production capacity will double in 2007 to approximately 250 million gallons.

ORYXE Energy also produces an additive for standard diesel at its blending facility in Pasadena, Texas.

Resources:

• ORXYE Energy Biodiesel Emissions Test Summary