A Comparison Between Raw Material and Technologies for a Sustainable Biodiesel Production Industry

Abstract

The increasing interest in Biodiesel production is due to its source, which is renewable, sustainable, and biodegradable as vegetable oils are. This biofuel does not produce CO neither particle pollutant emissions; and it produces a reduced quantity of CO2 when compared to regular diesel. This interest has also lead to wider debate about the use of refined vegetable oils as a raw material for food or fuel. Normally, Biodiesel production is carried on by using refined oil and sodium hydroxide due to their short residence time and the widespread knowledge about this process. Nevertheless, several new options as regards sources and technologies are being studied on biodiesel production. This chapter discusses the different possibilities regarding raw materials, considering their advantages and disadvantages. It also presents a short comparison of the different technologies for biodiesel production, their strengths and weaknesses in relation to the different raw materials and alcohols. A short summary of the different alcohol and their influences will also be introduced.