Applications of Nanotechnology in Biofuel Production

Abstract

AbstractThe rapid depletion of fossil fuel has pushed mankind to think about alternative fuel sources for a smart future. In this direction, biofuel is the most promising source of sustainable energy because of its environment-friendly and green nature. The production of biofuels is boosted by the application of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Nanomaterials show a better performance in the processing and production of biofuel due to the high surface-to-volume ratio and related high reactivity of these materials. Nanotechnology helps in enzyme immobilization and reduces production costs by recovering and reusing the catalysts. In this chapter, the use of various nanocatalysts and nanomaterials to improve the processing and production of biofuels are discussed in detail. The current status of biofuels for controlling the energy crisis and applications of nanotechnology in the production of various types of biofuel has been put forth. Further, issues and prospects regarding the nanotechnological and economic feasibility of the biofuel production process are also discussed in this chapter.KeywordsNanotechnologyBiofuelImmobilizationNanocatalystNanomaterialRenewable energy