Biodiesel Production via Enzymatic Hydrolysis

Followed by Chemical-Enzymatic Esterification

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Biodiesels are generally defined as Fatty Acid Methyl
Ester (FAME). They are produced via
trans-esterification of oils or fats with low molecular
weight alcohols, typically methanol. Currently, alkaline
bases are used to catalyze the reaction. This
production process has a few disadvantages. These
catalysts require anhydrous conditions and feedstock
with low levels of free fatty acids. When using
feedstock containing high concentrations of free fatty
acids (e.g. used cooking oil), a pre-esterification step
of the fatty acid with methanol is necessary to
preserve the activity of the basic catalyst. Although,
enzyme or acid catalysts are less sensitive to free fatty
acids and can simultaneously conduct esterification Technology Features & Specifications
and trans-esterification, acid- or enzyme-catalyzed
Enzymatic hydrolysis and esterification of oil and
trans-esterification process are relatively slower.
fats
Furthermore, enzyme catalyzed trans-esterification is
inhibited by methanol and the by-product, glycerol. To 99% yield
minimize these problems, a method for biodiesel Recyclable catalysts
production via enzymatic hydrolysis of oils or fats Low cost feedstock
followed by chemical/enzymatic esterification of FFA
produced in hydrolysis step is invented. This process Market Trends and Opportunities
can circumvent the enzyme poisoning effect of
European diesel consumption was around 175
methanol reactant and glycerol byproduct. The
million tonnes in 2004. In order to meet the 2005
biodiesel yield in invented method reaches 99%. The
EU Directive target of 2 percent, 3.5 million
invented method is more efficient than catalyzed
tonnes of biodiesel will be required. To meet the
trans-esterification and can utilize low cost feedstock,
2010 target of 5.75 percent, 10.1 million tonnes of
such as crude palm oil containing high water and free
biodiesel are required based on consumption
fatty acids.
figures for 2004. (Source: Frost & Sullivan)

Potential Applications
For more information on the technologies we have to offer,
please visit our web site at http://www.exploit-tech.com or
Production of biodiesel enquire at tech-offer@exploit-tech.com

Customer Benefits

Mild reaction conditions

Utilizes low cost feedstock
Minimizes the methanol poisoning to enzyme
Higher biodiesel yield
Easier catalyst recovery
Simpler product separation

Disclaimer
Although due care and attention have been taken to ensure that the preparation of this material is as accurate as possible, the contents of this brochure are provided for
information purposes only. Neither the Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Exploit Technologies Pte Ltd nor the inventors offer any warranty, written
express or implied, as to the accuracy of the said contents. Applicants are advised to undertake independent evaluation of the technology.