Production of Biodiesel from Various Sources

Abstract

We all are aware that the depletion of the fossil fuel reservoirs has lead to an urgent search for alternative forms of present day fuels. The possible solution could come from biofuels, especially biodiesel. Biodiesel could be produced from plants, microorganisms, fungi, wastewater, microalgae etc., but these sources suffer from one or more drawbacks. However, microalgae could serve as the best source for biodiesel production since it does not lead to a land versus fuel confl ict. This chapter is mainly focused on the sources for the production of biodiesel, biodiesel production processes, catalysis involved and the factors affecting biodiesel production. We have to understand that for the best utilization of biodiesel in diesel engines, we have to incorporate technical modifi cations in traditional diesel engines so that biodiesel production could be promoted commercially.

Influence of Degree of Unsaturation on Combustion Efficiency and Flue Gas Emissions of Burning Five Refined Vegetable Oils in an Emulsion Burner

“…Nevertheless, VO combustion is not without its problems due to the high viscosity that makes it difficult to achieve suitable atomization and complete combustion. For this reason, most research has focused on the combustion of methyl esters of long-chain fatty acids (FAMEs) derived from VOs (biodiesel) in diesel engines − and commercial burners, − whereas the use of pure VOs for heating purposes has received far less attention. As an alternative, the combustion of VOs–diesel fuel blends has been carried out in order to decrease the oil’s viscosity and increase its volatility.…”