Techno-Economic Assessment and Plant Design for Biodiesel Production from Rice Bran Oil in the Philippines via Acid- and Base-Catalyzed Processes

Biodiesel, is produced from biomass-based oils like vegetable or animal fats. Among second-generation oil sources, rice bran oil stands out as a viable feedstock due to its benefits, including increased food production, wealth creation through rice farming, and the economic value of utilizing rice waste. The Acid-Esterification Base-Transesterification (AEBT) process is used to convert rice bran oil into biodiesel, with esterification reducing Free Fatty Acids (FFA) to prevent saponification and enhance yield and quality. The production process is then simulated using Aspen HYSYS, with feasibility assessed based on economic viability, market potential, process complexity, and product usefulness. Given the rising demand for biodiesel due to environmental concerns, finite fossil fuel reserves, and fluctuating petroleum prices, establishing a biodiesel plant in the country offers significant economic and environmental benefits. The feasibility study indicates a return on investment of 62.16 %, with a 1.61-y payback period. The plant is designed to produce approximately 57,742 t of biodiesel annually across three production sections. This study aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by promoting renewable energy and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by fostering sustainable industrial development. By leveraging rice bran oil for biodiesel production, this research supports sustainable energy development and economic resilience in the Philippines.