Author
 |
Haas, Michael |
|
Foglia, Thomas |
|
Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 11/15/2005 Publication Date: 2/1/2005 Citation: Haas, M.J., Foglia, T.A. 2005. Alternate feedstocks and technologies for biodiesel production. In: Knothe, G., Krahl, J., and Van Gerpen, J., editors. The Biodiesel Handbook. Champaign, IL: AOCS Press. p. 42-61. Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: 'Biodiesel' is the name given to a new type of diesel fuel, one that can be produced from agricultural materials such as soybean oil and animal fat. Biodiesel is presently making the transition from an experimental and demonstration fuel to a diesel fuel component widely used in transportation. It is an attractive fuel because it reduces engine emissions of some Federally regulated air pollutants, does not contribute to global warming, reduces dependence on imported oil, and increases agricultural income and rural economic stability. This review article provides an overview of contemporary elements of the production of biodiesel. It discusses both the most common synthesis technology in use for biodiesel production and new technologies under development. In addition, since the high price of refined edible oils in biodiesel production results in a fuel whose price substantially exceeds that of petroleum-based diesel fuel, this book chapter also discusses current efforts to use less expensive feedstocks for biodiesel production. |
