CATALYSTS FOR BIODIESEL PRODUCTION - Isis Project No 70638
Technology Source: Universidade de São Paulo (USP)
New catalysts for the cost effective production of environmentally friendly low carbon, low emissions biodiesel fuels.
Marketing Opportunity
Biodiesel is a fuel manufactured from vegetable oils or animal fats by chemical processing. Biodiesel can be used in pure form or mixed with conventional mineral diesel. The advantages of biodiesel over conventional diesel include:
- Improved engine lubricity;
- Improved ignition characteristics; and,
- Reduced carbon or toxic (sulphorous) gas emmisions.
The Brazilian Ministry of Science and Technology estimates that pure biodiesel reduces carbon monoxide emissions by 48%, black smoke by 47% and completely eliminates the sulphuric oxide emissions which are a main cause of acid rain.
The process for manufacturing biodiesels is catalysed by the addition chemical compounds. Unfortunately current catalysts are costly and result in the formation of undesirable by-products.
The USP Invention
Researchers at Chemistry School of Ribeirão Preto, a unit of USP, have developed a new process and catalysts for biodiesel production. The benefits are:
- Higher yields of biodiesel;
- Lower production costs;
- Lower treatment costs in catalyst regeneration; and,
- Reduced formation of undesirable by-products.
For further information, see "Current Technologies in Biodiesel Production", Springer, London (2007).
Patent Status
This technology is owned by USP Innovation Agency, the technology transfer company of USP. USP is the leading research University in South America. This work is the subject of a patent application and USP Innovation Agency would like to talk to companies interested in developing the commercial opportunity that this represents. Please contact the USP Project Manager through Isis to discuss this further.
Request Further Information: Project Number 70638 - Catalysts for Biodiesel Production