Development of biodiesel from inedible feedstock through various production processes. Review

Fossil fuels are dwindling daily. An ever increasing demand for energy and environmental concern stimulate the search for alternative energy sources. As a renewable energy, biodiesel is one of the most attractive due to environmental advantages. However, a major hurdle in the commercialization of biodiesel from virgin oil is the raw material cost. Low-cost feedstock resources are playing a vital role in the whole biodiesel industry. This paper briefly reviews the inedible vegetable oil sources that have been explored for biodiesel production. In addition, comparisons of the advantages and disadvantages of biodiesel synthesis through homogeneous, heterogeneous, and enzymatic catalysis are also discussed in this review.