Improved Method for Determining Microbiological Contamination of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters and Blended Diesel Fuels

Abstract

The process of degradation of biodiesel of vegetable origin (rapeseed and sunflower) under the influence of various factors is considered. Existing methods of determining microbiological contamination of substances are analyzed, their main advantages, disadvantages, and limits of use are determined. Based on the combination of existing methods, a method of qualitative and quantitative determination of the degree of microbiological (bacterial and mycological) damage to fuels has been developed. Quantitative and qualitative characteristics of microbiological damage to traditional and alternative diesel fuels have been established. The microorganisms that are the most active destructors of biofuels have been identified.