Bio-derived catalysts for production of biodiesel: A review on feedstock, oil extraction methodologies, reactors and lifecycle assessment of biodiesel

The deleterious condition of the ecosystem due to the extensive utilization of fossil fuels has resulted in the production of biodiesel. Currently, research is being progressed for finding out the superior catalysts for diesel production. In this review, a comprehensive summary of bio-derived catalysts in biodiesel production was presented, including feedstock, catalysts, reactors, and life cycle assessment (LCA) analysis of biodiesel production. The current status and perspectives for biodiesel production from sustainable and renewable feedstock are discussed. In addition, various extraction methodologies for biodiesel feedstock in the aspects of scalability of the process are discussed. Bio-derived catalysts are of recent interest as a potential alternative to conventional chemical catalysts owing to their low-cost, porosity, high surface area, eco-friendly and unique properties. Bioderived materials are composed of biological and industrial waste and are a rich source of minerals such as calcium and potassium that can develop the rate of transesterification/esterification process. Various techniques have been put forward for obtaining biological active catalysts from industrial and eco-waste materials. This review focuses on the utilization of bio-based materials as catalysts for biodiesel production. Also discussed, the process occurs in a bioreactor along with process parameters such as reaction time, temperature, feedstock and catalysts concentration. For commercial and efficient production of biodiesel, it is significant to utilize a few novel methodologies that result in favorable biodiesel production. The lifecycle, environmental impact, and economic feasibility of biodiesel production have also been discussed.

Automated summary

This article provides a comprehensive review of bio-derived catalysts in biodiesel production, including feedstock, catalysts, reactors, and life cycle assessment. Bio-derived catalysts have gained attention as potential alternatives to conventional chemical catalysts due to their low-cost, eco-friendly, and unique properties.