Functionalized Biochar for Green and Sustainable Production of Biodiesel

Biomass is a renewable energy source generated from agricultural waste, solid waste, etc. In addition to being utilized extensively for storing energy and gas, biomass is a major source of catalysts for biodiesel production. Biochar is a by-product of thermochemically degrading biomass through processes like pyrolysis, hydrothermal conversion, carbonization, etc., which has great potential as an energy storage material, a precursor to nanotubes and graphene, and as a catalyst for various chemical reactions. The high porosity, large surface area, low cost, and ease of generation make biochar a great contender for a catalyst. The post modification includes the physical or chemical activation which makes the surface area larger by increasing the pores. It also includes functionalization by adding a specific functional group for a particular chemical reaction. Acid-functionalized and base-functionalized biochar can be used for the transesterification of triglycerides and the esterification of free fatty acids. This production of biodiesel using functionalized biochar as a catalyst can be enhanced by optimizing different reaction parameters like time, temperature, etc. Overall, functionalized biochar is a strong candidate as a catalyst for the production of biodiesel.