Low-cost biodiesel production

Abstract

Use of fossil fuel after about 200 years of its dominance the world’s primary source of energy has caused many environmental problems of which increase in air pollution and climate change are the major ones. Biodiesel production from microalgae is a renewable and bio-friendly source of energy recognized worldwide than fossil fuel. Unfortunately, the major challenge hindering biodiesel production at pilot scale is the high cost of production. This study, therefore, discusses some important steps taken to lower the cost of biodiesel production which includes a choice of lipid extraction methods, biomass drying methods, biodiesel conversion methods and choice of cultivating media. The cheap and effective method of lipid extraction, biomass drying and biodiesel conversion was identified and discussed. The use of natural media such as Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) for the cultivation of microalgae to produce biomass, which can be used as feedstock for biodiesel production was highlighted. The identification of the major strategies for up-scaling biodiesel production is a step forward in making biodiesel production economically viable.