The present invention relates to the use of (unactivated) carbon synthesized from the husks of the Pongamia pinnata energy crop as an absorbent to reduce the content of free fatty acids present in oils, serving as a preliminary step to the transesterification reaction for the production of biodiesel.
– It promotes a circular economy.. Residual biomass is used, giving value to a waste product generated within the process itself.
– Cost reduction. Using waste significantly reduces the cost of biodiesel.
– Simplicity of the process. It allows working at room temperature and replaces the esterification stage.
– Safe and environmentally friendly. The use of charcoal avoids the use of strong acids.