Evaluating the Composition of Biodiesel Synthesized from Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae

Abstract

Biodiesel is considered a viable alternative to conventional diesel, particularly for the ground transportation industry. While different plant seeds oils have been the dominant feedstocks for biodiesel synthesis to date. However, they are often expensive due to their limited supply and low reproductive rate. Objective: To present a sustainable approach by using the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae as an alternative feedstock. Methods: The larvae were fed with waste chicken rice, fish, soft vegetables and fruits. These wastes provide food and shelter for disease-causing insect larvae and contributes to land pollution. Using petroleum ether as a solvent, 12.2 g of crude grease was extracted from ~ 500 larvae, resulting in about 11.8 g of biodiesel through a two-step acid-base catalyzed transesterification process. Results: The resultant biodiesel was analyzed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), revealing a Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) profile predominantly comprising dodecanoic acid, 9-Hexadecenoic acid, 9- octadecenoic acid and 11- octadecenoic acid etc, emphasizing its potential as a high-quality alternative to conventional diesel fuel. Conclusions: This study contributed to develop biodiesel as an eco-friendly renewable energy technology by using BSFL.