History of Diesel fuel in Timeline

Diesel fuel is a liquid fuel designed for diesel engines, where ignition occurs through compression rather than a spark. A key characteristic of diesel fuel is its ability to ignite under high compression. It's also known as diesel oil or heavy oil. Diesel engines rely on this fuel's properties for efficient combustion.

1900: Crude oil Diesel engine at Paris Exposition

In 1900, the French Otto society displayed a Diesel engine designed for crude oil use at the 1900 Paris Exposition. Notably, the engine was successfully operated using peanut oil without any modifications.

1911: Crude oil Diesel engine at the World's Fair

In 1911, a Diesel engine designed for crude oil use was displayed at the 1911 World's Fair in Paris.

1993: Introduction of EN 590 standard

In 1993, the DIN 51601 standard was superseded by the EN 590 standard in the European Union.

2000: Sulfur content reduction in EU

In 2000, specifications allowed a content of 2000 ppm max of sulfur, reduced to a limit of 350 ppm by the beginning of the 21st century with the introduction of Euro 3 specifications.

2006: Transition to ULSD in the US

In 2006, the United States began transitioning to Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) with the adoption of more stringent emission standards.

2006: Introduction of Euro 4 specifications

In 2006, with the introduction of Euro 4 specifications, the limit was lowered to 50 ppm (ULSD, Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel).

2009: Introduction of Euro 5 standard

In 2009, the Euro 5 standard for diesel fuel was enforced in Europe, setting a maximum sulfur content of 10 ppm.

June 1, 2010: Mandatory ULSD in the US

On June 1, 2010, the use of Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) became mandatory in the United States as part of more stringent emission standards.

2016: Availability of ULSD

In 2016, ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) became almost the exclusive petroleum-based diesel fuel available in the United Kingdom, mainland Europe, and North America, replacing previous diesel fuel types.