Know Your Enemy: A True Reflection on Testing in Renewable Feedstocks

Abstract It is well established that the switch to renewable feedstocks can cause problems in tank storage – and there is a lot of speculation as to why this might be the case – fatty acids, water content, degradation etc. There are reported examples of both significant corrosion of tanks used to store the likes of waste cooking oil and where linings (with proven performance in the energy market) have degraded. After a long-term study into both the performance of linings in this service (which has required test method development and significant analytical work) and the nature of the feedstocks themselves, Sherwin feel we have some of the answers. The aim of this paper is not to focus on the performance of linings (although the results are important in demonstrating the relationship with the chemical behavior under storage) rather we will look at how the nature of the oils themselves contribute to corrosion and performance of linings. After reviewing this we will suggest what controls (or changes to processes) may be implemented to ensure the longevity of storage assets in this market without the need for extreme solutions.