Lipid extraction from Azolla filiculoides and its applications for catalyzed biodiesel production

The growing recognition that first-generation biofuels from food crops and oil seeds are inadequate has spurred global discussions on sustainable renewable energy production. This concern has increased interest in second-generation biofuels from non-food feedstocks, such as algae. Azolla is identified as a highly promising macroalgae for the production of biodiesel. This study investigates the efficiency of lipid extraction and biodiesel quality from Azolla, a promising macroalgae. Characterization techniques including GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry), FT-IR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), and NMR ¹H and ¹³C (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) spectroscopy were employed. The findings show that the kinematic viscosity and flash point of the biodiesel are 4.32 mm²/s at 40 °C and 165 °C, respectively. Trace element analysis revealed no major environmental concerns. Overall, the biodiesel produced from Azolla demonstrates potential as a sustainable and locally supplied substitute for diesel fuel in utility vehicles.