20, May 2025

Exploring the Role of Different Types of Catalysts to Enhancing Biodiesel Production from Waste Cooking Oil – A Review

Uncategorized, VOLUME-11; ISSUE-5; MAY-2025

Author(s): 1. Mehul Prajapati, 2. Suganthi Sivaperumal

Authors Affiliations:

1. Research Scholar, Shree Swaminarayan Science College, Swaminarayan University, Kalol ; 2. Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Shree Swaminarayan Science College, Swaminarayan University Kalol.

DOIs:10.2015/IJIRMF/202505003     |     Paper ID: IJIRMF202505003


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Biodiesel from waste cooking oil (WCO) is an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to fossil fuels. This review focuses on catalytic reactions in biodiesel production, especially transesterification using various homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts. The growing demand for sustainable energy, particularly in Asia, has increased interest in biodiesel. Transesterification converting triglycerides into fatty acid alkyl esters (biodiesel) using acid or base catalysts is the most common method. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) are widely used but generate waste and require specific feedstock. Heterogeneous catalysts are preferred for their reusability and ability to process feedstock with high free fatty acid (FFA) content. Waste cooking oil is highlighted as a low-cost, sustainable feedstock that supports India's biodiesel blending goals. Despite its benefits, biodiesel production still faces challenges like catalyst selection, feedstock variability, and costs. This paper reviews recent catalytic advances and explores future directions for improving efficiency and sustainability.

Waste cooking oil (WCO), Biodiesel, Transesterification, homogeneous catalysis, heterogeneous catalysts.

Mehul Prajapati, Suganthi Sivaperumal(2025); Exploring the Role of Different Types of Catalysts to Enhancing Biodiesel Production from Waste Cooking Oil – A Review,  International Journal for Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Field, ISSN(O): 2455-0620, Vol-11, Issue-5, Pp.12-19.          Available on –   https://www.ijirmf.com/

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