The Use of Artificial Neural Networks for Identifying Sustainable Biodiesel Feedstocks

Abstract

Abstract:Over the past few decades, biodiesel produced from oilseed crops and animal fat is receiving much attention as a renewable and sustainable alternative for automobile engine fuels, and particularly petroleum diesel. However, current biodiesel production is heavily dependent on edible oil feedstocks which are unlikely to be sustainable in the longer term due to the rising food prices and the concerns about automobile engine durability. Therefore, there is an urgent need for researchers to identify and develop sustainable biodiesel feedstocks which overcome the disadvantages of current ones. On the other hand, artificial neural network (ANN) modeling has been successfully used in recent years to gain new knowledge in various disciplines. The main goal of this article is to review recent literatures and assess the state of the art on the use of ANN as a modeling tool for future generation biodiesel feedstocks. Biodiesel feedstocks, production processes, chemical compositions, standards, physio-chemical properties and in-use performance are discussed. Limitations of current biodiesel feedstocks over future generation biodiesel feedstock have been identified. The application of ANN in modeling key biodiesel quality parameters and combustion performance in automobile engines is also discussed. This review has determined that ANN modeling has a high potential to contribute to the development of renewable energy systems by accelerating biodiesel research.

A Review of Hydrothermal Liquefaction Bio-Crude Properties and Prospects for Upgrading to Transportation Fuels

“…Moreover, higher fuel viscosity has been observed to increase carbon monoxide (CO) and UHC [45]. In contrast, very low fuel viscosity leads to poor lubrication of fuel injection pumps, causing leaks and increased wear [46]. This results in biodiesel standards having upper and lower limits in kinematic viscosity.…”

“…Normal alkanes increase cetane number the most, followed by branched alkanes, normal alkenes, branched alkenes, cycloalkanes, and aromatics. A high CN signifies good ignition quality, good cold start properties, minimal white smoke in exhaust [46], and low UHC [45] and CO emissions [45,48]. On the other hand, a low CN is related to a longer ignition delay time, which leads to higher amounts of injected fuel mixed prior to combustion.…”

Production of Biodiesel from Mixed Waste Cooking and Castor Oil

“…Although the use of biodiesel benefits in many ways, which relies solely on single feedstocks, it also raises several problems like competition for food needs and the need for extensive land for the life cycle of biodiesel production [3]. Biodiesel production in Indonesia which still relies on palm oil affects the loss of biodiversity due to deforestation to meet the demand for palm oil.…”

“…Biodiesel is a mono-alkyl ester of a long chain of fatty acids having a carbon chain between 6-24 depending on the base material [3]. The presence of oxygen in biodiesel distinguishes it from petroleum diesel whose main component consists only of hydrocarbons.…”

Biodiesel from Hydrolyzed Waste Cooking Oil Using a S-ZrO2/SBA-15 Super Acid Catalyst under Sub-Critical Conditions

“…In recent years, biodiesel has become an attractive alternative energy source, due to its fuel properties, cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, biodegradability, and renewability [2]. It consists of fatty acid monoalkyl (methyl or ethyl) esters, obtained from vegetable oils and animal fats by esterification and transesterification with alcohols in the presence of (acid/base) catalysts [3,4].…”