Because they work with existing diesel engines and fueling systems, biofuels can avoid the costly infrastructure changes needed for electric vehicles (e.g., charging stations and battery systems). On top of being compatible with existing infrastructure, they also provide a high energy output and long operational ranges, which makes them ideal for heavy-duty mining equipment – unlike electric vehicles that may require frequent recharging or large batteries. If, instead of electrification, miners are thinking about transitioning to hydrogen, they will also need expensive and complex storage and refuelling infrastructure. In contrast, biofuels use existing fuel systems and require no new infrastructure, as well as being a proven, reliable technology. In contrast, hydrogen fuel cells are still in the early stages, especially in mining.
Biofuels even offer benefits compared to synthetic fuels: they are more cost-effective and easier to produce at scale, while synthetic fuels are more expensive and complex. Overall, biofuels offer a practical, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative for the mining sector, requiring minimal infrastructure changes, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting energy security without the complexity of other alternatives like electricity or hydrogen. E&M: How can fuel additives be used with biofuels for mining applications? GB: Aderco additives can be used with biofuels in mining applications to enhance fuel performance and protect equipment from common biofuel issues.
For example, our additives help to stabilise biofuels, preventing oxidation, which can lead to harmful deposits and engine damage. This is crucial in mining, where equipment is exposed to extreme conditions. By preventing oxidation, the product also stabilises the acidity levels of biofuels, reducing corrosion and protecting metal components in engines and fuel systems. Aderco additives also help separate water from biofuel, preventing water-related issues like the biofuel degradation. Finally, they inhibit bacterial contamination, preventing bacteria causing sludge buildup and clogging fuel lines, ensuring cleaner, more efficient fuel use. In short, Aderco improves fuel quality and efficiency, reduces maintenance, and extends equipment life in mining operations using biofuels. E&M: What are the benefits of using a vegetal organic surfactant technology? GB: With a vegetal-organic surfactant technology like Aderco, businesses can enjoy enhanced performance
while prioritising environmental responsibility and cost efficiency. These surfactants are made from natural, renewable resources, so they break down easily in the environment, reducing long-term pollution. They are also free from toxic chemicals, heavy metals, or petroleum-based additives, making them safer for ecosystems. These benefits make vegetal-organic surfactant technology an appealing option for industries that rely heavily on fuel-driven operations, such as shipping, transportation, and power generation. Also, the eco-friendliness of the technology means that a vegetal-organic surfactant is eligible to generate voluntary carbon credits. A pilot project using the Verra “Methodology for Improved Efficiency of Fleet Vehicle and Combustion Engines” is currently going through validation and implementation. The project focuses on reducing CO2 emissions in mining vehicles and mobile machinery through fuel additives and monitoring protocols, with the goal of generating voluntary carbon credits.
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