Due to rapid economic and industrial development, global energy demand has increased considerably, with fossil fuels continuing to represent the dominant energy source in the transportation sector. However, the extensive use of conventional fuels has raised significant environmental concerns associated with carbon dioxide emissions and the accumulation of greenhouse gases. Consequently, the development of sustainable, renewable, and low-emission alternative fuels has become increasingly important.

Hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) represents a promising alternative to conventional diesel fuel due to its renewable origin and favorable environmental performance. HVO is produced through the hydrotreatment of vegetable oils, resulting in a fuel composed mainly of n- and iso-paraffinic hydrocarbons. These characteristics enable its direct use in existing diesel engines without requiring significant engine modifications. Furthermore, HVO contributes to the reduction of pollutant emissions, improved combustion efficiency, and enhanced sustainability in the transportation sector.

This paper presents a study on the development of a method for HVO production, followed by the characterization of the obtained fuel. The physicochemical properties of the laboratory-produced HVO were determined, including chemical composition, viscosity, density, flash point, cetane number, volatility, cold flow properties, and sulfur content.