Biodiesel: Fuel for the Future (A Brief Review)

Abstract

Several attempts have been made by researchers across the globe to counter the effects of the growing informat ion related to the finite nature of the present fossil fuel reserve and the associated hazards. Biofuel has gained global popularity in this respect as a biomass based fuel that have been tipped as a timely candidate. This review strictly focuses on biodiesel of all b io mass derived biofuel.The major feedstock and their supply lines in a b id to create a balance between food and energy was considered. Various catalyst used including biocatalyst for the simp le trans-esterification react ion of the feedstock (Vegetable/Used Oil; Edible/Inedib le Oil and Alcohol) were analyzed. In fluence of the feedstock mo lar rat io, temperature and t ime of the reaction on the conversion/yield and product purity and quality were equally reviewed. The thermo -kinetics of the biodiesel production, fuel properties of biodiesel and the trials subjected to biodiesel in terms of workab ility were considered for review in th is paper.