A Comprehensive Review of Palm Oil in Biodiesel Production: From Cultivation to Market

Abstract

The study highlights several key findings. Palm oil is an excellent raw material for biodiesel production due to its high oil content and favorable properties that closely resemble petro-diesel. The global market for palm oil biodiesel is significant, with palm biodiesel contributing to 35% of the global biodiesel market and expected to reach a market value of US$92.84 billion by 2021. The use of palm oil by-products and mill effluent for biodiesel production is feasible and can mitigate the food versus fuel debate. The production process of palm biodiesel, including transesterification with methanol and potassium hydroxide, yields biodiesel that meets ASTM standards. The environmental impact of palm biodiesel is favorable, with lower emissions of harmful pollutants and greenhouse gases compared to fossil fuels. The findings suggest that palm oil is a viable and sustainable source for biodiesel production. Utilizing palm oil by-products and mill effluent can further enhance the sustainability of biodiesel production, addressing both economic and environmental concerns. The study underscores the importance of palm oil in the future of renewable energy sources, particularly in regions like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, which are leading producers of palm oil.