Catalyst for Green Biodiesel Production from Unrefined Feedstock

Biodiesel is a renewable liquid fuel originated from biomass, but it is not widely used because of its complicated production process and high cost. Since conventional liquid catalyst can only convert plant oil in its purest form into biodiesel, raw plant oil must be purified by adding strong acid or alkali before it can be used. To remove the added acid/alkali, the biodiesel must undergo a purification procedure which generates a huge amount of waste water. Therefore, PolyU has developed a new class of solid catalyst for biodiesel production. This new catalyst has excellent adaptability to low grade unrefined feedstock like waste cooking oil, and no waste water is created during the production process. In addition, it operates at significantly lower temperatures and pressures due to its high catalytic activity, which can reduce cost and energy consumption.