Catalytic boost for cheaper biodiesel production

  • June 19, 2024
  • Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
  • Category: DPN Topics
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Catalytic boost for cheaper biodiesel production

Sub: Environment

Sec: Int Conventions

Development of Cost-Effective Water-Repellent Catalyst for Biodiesel Production:

  • Scientists from Assam, Odisha, China, and the UK have developed a water-repellent catalyst to reduce the cost of producing environmentally friendly biodiesel.
  • The research on the “spherical superhydrophobic activated carbon catalyst” has been published in Advanced Functional Materials.

Research Team:

  • Arpita Das, Kangkana Saikia, Samuel Lalthazuala Rokhum (NIT Silchar, Assam)
  • Chandrakanta Guchhait, Bimalendu Adhikari (NIT Rourkela, Odisha)
  • Da Shi (University of Cambridge, UK)
  • Hu Li (Guizhou University, China)

Key Features of the Catalyst:

  • The catalyst mimics the water-repelling properties of lotus leaves, preventing the poisoning of active sites by water produced during biodiesel production.
  • It is derived from biomass (cellulose), making it eco-friendly, abundant, and affordable.
  • It is highly robust and can withstand the water by-product, enhancing its effectiveness and reusability.

Biodiesel:

  • Biodiesel is a liquid fuel produced from vegetable oils and animal fats through transesterification.
  • It is used as a replacement or as a blending with petroleum-based diesel in various combinations such as B5, B20, B100, etc.
  • B20 (commonly used due to cost-effectiveness, low emissions and compatibility with conventional engines) is a blend containing 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel.
  • B100 (less commonly used) is a pure biodiesel.

Impact on Biodiesel Production:

  • The novel catalyst significantly reduces the cost of biodiesel production.
  • Current biodiesel costs in India are around ₹100 ($1.2) per litre; the new catalyst can reduce this to approximately 37 cents per litre.
  • This makes biodiesel a more cost-effective and sustainable energy source compared to diesel, which costs at least ₹87 per litre in India.

Significance:

  • The catalyst improves the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the biodiesel production process.
  • It supports broader adoption of biodiesel, contributing to a greener future.
  • The green synthesis strategy offers a sustainable method for biomass waste disposal and enhances the utility of biochar as an alternative to graphene and carbon nanotubes.

Source: TH

Catalytic boost for cheaper biodiesel production Environment