Iowa biofuel testing facility gains BQ-9000 certificate

A biofuel testing facility in Iowa has been granted BQ-9000 certification, marking it as an industry-standard biofuel analysis operator.

The BQ-9000 standard is voluntary and incorporates ASTM D6751 for biodiesel production and maintenance, along with issues relating to sampling, blending, distribution and biofuel testing.

Iowa's Central Fuel Testing Laboratory is the first laboratory to be certified under the standard, according to the National Biodiesel Board.

Steve Howell, technical director at the board, says: "Not every biodiesel plant has an on-site laboratory to test fuel, so there is a need for qualified, credible laboratories to test fuel samples."

He adds that the commitment to biofuel analysis helps to make sure that the fuel reaching the consumer market is of the highest quality.

Following the announcement, the board suggests that it is likely other testing facilities will also seek to gain accreditation to match the Iowa Central Fuel Testing Laboratory in complying with the desirable industry quality standards.