Abstract
This text presents an analysis of the application of membrane processes for biodiesel production and purification. Biodiesel is usually produced by transesterification of fatty oils with methanol. Sequentially, the crude biodiesel produced is purified by washing with water to remove impurities. Although it is efficient in most cases, wet purification is a costly process. Alternative processes have been proposed for biodiesel purification, such as dry washing using adsorbents and ion exchange resins, and membrane separation processes. Membrane processes were first investigated for biodiesel treatment in 2006; from that point, several studies have been carried out to understand and optimize this application better. Based on the molecular size exclusion phenomenon, glycerin, soap, and catalysts are successfully retained by the membrane. Moreover, integrated processes can be carried out for biodiesel production and purification using catalytic membranes.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
