Metallic Materials Corrosion during Biofuels Processing and Use

In order to ensure the transition to non-fossil fuels, the use of biofuels is one way of reducing CO ₂ emissions. The biofuels industry comprises a whole range of processes making it possible to obtain, from a variety of incoming sources (energy crops, lignocellulosic biomass, vegetable oils and animal fats, etc.), chemical compounds that can replace or be added to petroleum-based fuels. These new feedstocks have led to the adaptation of oil refining processes and the development of new biorefinery processes.

To ensure the reliability of equipment used in these new technologies, it is essential to select materials that can withstand these new, potentially corrosive environments. The aim of this article is to provide information on the various corrosion phenomena encountered in biorefineries, and how to protect against them by making appropriate choices of materials and/or anti-corrosion treatments.

As new contaminants may be present in biofuels (gasoline, kerosene, diesel) during transport, storage and combustion, corrosion damage and/or fouling of pipes, tanks, engines and turbojets may occur. This article also looks at how to make the right choice of materials and/or anti-corrosion and anti-deposition treatments.