Biofuels in Perspective

5.1 Introduction
5
Process Technologies for
Biodiesel Production
Martin Mittelbach
Department of Renewable Resources, Institute of Chemistry,
Karl-Franzens-University, Graz, Austria
In the last years bio energy and biofuels have become a major issue around the world,
especially because of the rising oil prices on the one hand, and of public awareness and
concern on energy safety and environmental issues like climate change on the other hand.
In particular, fatty acid methyl esters, also called ‘biodiesel’, have become the leading
biofuel for diesel engines, because they have very similar fuel properties to fossil fuel and
can be used without any changes to the engine. So the acceptance of engine manufacturers
and the mineral oil industry is very high. Another reason for the quick market penetration
of biodiesel is the relatively easy process technology, which can be done on a small as
well as industrial scale. This chapter will give an overview of the current situation of
biodiesel production worldwide and also of possible feedstocks. In particular the chemical
principles of biodiesel production as well as the different production technologies will be
highlighted.
5.2 Biodiesel Production Worldwide
Europe has been the leading region for biodiesel production. The first pilot plant for
the production of biodiesel from rape seed oil has been installed in Austria in 1987 in
Biofuels. Edited by Wim Soetaert, Erick J. Vandamme.
© 2009 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. ISBN: 978-0-470-02674-8