Supercritical fluid technology in biodiesel production

Abstract

The synthesis of biodiesel has received attention as an alternative source of energy to decrease our dependence on petroleum-based fuels. The catalyzed processes present a series of limitations and drawbacks, among them the high energy required for complex purification and undesirable side reactions. Supercritical fluid (SCF) technology is being proved an efficient approach compared to traditional methods for preparing biodiesel. This review illustrates the advances, advantages, and drawbacks involved in the use of all current biodiesel production technologies.

Keywords

• biodiesel
• catalyst
• non-catalytic
• supercritical fluid
• transesterification