Recent Trends in Biodiesel Production Techniques: A Review

Manikandan Chandrasekaran, C. Syed Aalam

Biodiesel production, Transesterification, Homogeneous & Heterogeneous Catalysts, GC-MS, FTIR & TGA

Biodiesel has emerged as a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels, attracting considerable interest for its ability to meet growing energy needs while mitigating environmental impacts. This review focuses on contemporary advancements in biodiesel production techniques, highlighting innovative methods aimed at improving efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Non-edible oils like pine oil and soapnut oil have gained prominence as viable feedstocks, offering the advantage of avoiding competition with food supplies. Cutting-edge catalytic systems, including heterogeneous catalysts, nano-catalysts, and enzyme-based approaches, have brought significant improvements to the transesterification process by ensuring higher yields and greater stability. Novel technologies, such as ultrasound-assisted and microwave-assisted transesterification, are recognized for their capacity to reduce both reaction duration and energy usage. Optimization tools like Response Surface Methodology (RSM), combined with the use of co-solvents and additives, play a key role in enhancing biodiesel production quality and efficiency. The review further explores challenges related to feedstock availability, production costs, and scalability, while proposing solutions such as genetically engineered feedstocks and the integration of biodiesel production into biorefineries. By emphasizing recent technological innovations, this study highlights the transformative potential of modern biodiesel production techniques to support a sustainable and environmentally conscious energy future.

Received: 23 Nov 2024, Receive in revised form: 18 Dec 2024, Accepted: 22 Dec 2024, Available online: 28 Dec 2024

10.22161/ijaers.1112.9