A Review Article of Biodiesel Production

Biodiesel is a sustainable fuel derived from grease, vegetable oils, or animal fats through processes such as transesterification or esterification. In transesterification, triglycerides are converted into fatty acid alkyl esters with the help of alcohol and a catalyst, resulting in glycerol as a byproduct. With the reduction of petroleum supplies and environmental concerns related to diesel emissions, biodiesel has emerged as a renewable and biodegradable alternative. The predominant method for producing biodiesel involves alkali-catalyzed transesterification using methanol, requiring careful moisture control and free fatty acid levels to avoid soap formation. This article explores different sources of biodiesel, including edible and non-edible oils, the potential of algae-based biodiesel, various catalysts utilized in production, and recent developments in the field.