Hydrogenated Fats Diesel (HFD), also known as Renewable Diesel or Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), is a paraffinic diesel fuel produced by hydrotreating triglyceride-based feedstocks under high temperature and hydrogen pressure. Unlike biodiesel (FAME), HFD is chemically similar to fossil diesel and is a true drop-in fuel compatible with all diesel engines and infrastructure.
Feedstocks Used
Used cooking oil (UCO)
Animal fats (tallow, poultry fat, lard)
Fish oil residues
Vegetable oils (soy, palm, rapeseed, sunflower)
Distillers corn oil (DCO)
Advanced waste oils (PFAD, brown grease, sludge oils)
Higher waste feedstock usage results in lower lifecycle carbon intensity.
Manufacturing Process (Hydrotreating)
Pre-treatment: Removal of water, metals, and impurities
Hydrogenation: Saturation of double bonds and oxygen removal (HDO, DCO₂, DCO)
Isomerization: Improves cold-flow properties
Fractionation: Produces renewable diesel, naphtha, and LPG
Key Difference from Biodiesel (FAME)
| Aspect | HFD / HVO | Biodiesel (FAME) |
|---|---|---|
| Oxygen Content | 0% | 10–11% |
| Cold Weather Performance | Excellent | Poor |
| Stability | Very High | Moderate |
| Blending Limit | Up to 100% | Typically ≤20% |
| Engine Compatibility | Full | Limited |
Chemical & Combustion Characteristics
Paraffinic hydrocarbons only
No sulfur, aromatics, oxygen, or metals
Higher combustion efficiency and shorter ignition delay
Reduced deposits and extended engine oil life
Environmental & Lifecycle Benefits
60–90% CO₂ reduction vs fossil diesel
PM reduction up to 40%
NOₓ reduction 10–30%
CO reduction 20–50%
Certified under ISCC, RED II / RED III, RSB, and CORSIA (SAF pathway).
Fuel Standards & Compatibility
EN 15940 (Europe)
ASTM D975 (USA – renewable diesel)
ASTM D396 (Heating oil)
ISO 8217 (select marine grades)
Storage, Handling & Shelf Life
Non-hygroscopic
Oxidation stability >12 months
Resistant to microbial growth
Compatible with pipelines, tanks, and dispensers
Engine Performance
Improved cold starts
Reduced knocking and exhaust opacity
Cleaner injectors and combustion chambers
Applications
Transportation fleets and logistics
Diesel generators and backup power