Renewable olefins from biodiesel by autothermal reforming

Abstract

Not just a fuel: Renewable olefins, olefinic esters, and hydrogen are synthesized by the partial oxidation of biodiesel (methyl esters derived from vegetable oils) with air on a Rh-Ce catalyst in an autothermal reactor (see scheme). The availability and prices of vegetable oils suggest that this process could replace much of chemical production from fossil fuels.