 It should come as no surprise that James Infante discusses Shell Aquadiesel as though he were about to whip up lunch. When off duty, this chemist by training loves to cook. At work, James is a Fuels and Solvents Technologist at Newport terminal, and one of the driving forces behind Shell in Australia’s Aquadiesel trials. "It’s the next generation of fuel," he says, "and a strong platform from which to add renewable resources."
To produce a more environmentally friendly fuel, you need to improve fuel efficiency. You also need to significantly reduce harmful engine exhaust emissions such as airborne particulates, greenhouse gases, sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Shell Aquadiesel is the only diesel fuel that achieves significant reductions in all these emissions by using water as a kind of combustion improver. Its water content also improves fuel combustibility and helps keep engine components and exhaust systems clean and free of problems.
Shell in Australia’s commitment to improving air quality began in 1986 when it was the first oil major to introduce unleaded petrol to Australia. Other initiatives followed and, in October 2002, low-sulphur diesel (LSD) was launched ahead of the government regulated date.
Shell Aquadiesel goes one step further by emulsifying LSD with microscopic particles of water. "It means the plume of black smoke you see each time trucks stop and start will totally vanish, provided they are running on Shell Aquadiesel," says James. "This should translate into improved air quality around our cities, so we want to work with our customers and environmental regulators to maximize the benefits for all." Joint Australian trials commenced in January 2002 in conjunction with Clean Fuels Technology Inc, the company which patented the revolutionary technology. Shell’s customers have already reported the disappearance of visible smoke during trials.
Emission sensitive markets, like the underground mining sector, have welcomed the development of Shell Aquadiesel. "When you have people working in confined spaces close to their vehicles, the less emissions the better," says James.
James joined the project over two years ago as a technical adviser and was charged with the responsibility of initiating trials and monitoring their progress. His enthusiasm for the product has also seen him assume a range of marketing responsibilities. "I’m getting out more and talking to potential customers," he says. "It’s been a steep learning curve but I’m really enjoying it." | 
