Conditions of the transesterification process in the production of biodiesel and its different reaction mechanisms

Abstract

Biofuels are a viable alternative to the partial or total replacement of fossil fuels, biodiesel is an ideal substitute for diesel as it can be used without modifying existing engines and offers a safe distribution process. In this review, the raw materials used in recent years for their production by the transesterification method are summarized, as well as the effect that the operating conditions have on the reaction yield, in addition to integrating the reaction mechanisms with base catalysis, acid and the heterogeneous catalyst CaO. Transesterification has been studied and modified, from the conventional process to the application of ultrasound, in supercritical conditions and in situ. The ideal process will depend on the available raw materials and equipment, using the least amount of energy, time and inputs, one of the most promising is transesterification with ultrasound and heterogeneous catalyst.