Reactive extraction technology

Abstract

Reactive extraction is a process intensification alternative for conventional biodiesel processes, which effectively combines the extraction of oils using a solvent, with the (trans-) esterification reaction yielding fatty esters (biodiesel). This chapter gives an ample overview of using reactive extraction for biodiesel production—where typically the chemical reaction is combined with the separation of the reactants from the solid raw materials (plant seeds)—providing also a description of the experimental studies reported so far.