A mini-review of biodiesel production methods and its properties

Abstract

Fatty acid esters (FAEs) attract attention worldwide due to their environmental friendliness, renewable nature and the possibility of their use as additives to traditional diesel fuel. Current energy crisis in Ukraine can be solved only under the condition of rational use of all energy sources and search for alternative ones. Among them, the technologies involving FAEs play an important role. The paper discusses various options for the transesterification process of FAEs: non-catalytic and catalytic ones. Information is provided about different types of catalysis. Different raw materials for the production of FAEs of various origins are overviewed. The characteristics of existing installations and methods of the FAE production are given. The main advantages and disadvantages of the above-mentioned aspects of the FAE production are analyzed. Comparison of the physicochemical characteristics of FAEs obtained by different methods is made. Recommendations are given to partially overcome the existing fuel crisis in Ukraine with the help of biofuel production.