Current approaches to use oil crops by-products for biodiesel and biolubricant production: Focus on biocatalysis

Abstract

Biodiesel and biolubricants, derived from vegetable oils are substitutes for petroleum-derived inputs and are already a global reality, with a possibility of enlarging their participation in the fuel and oil chemical industry, respectively. The production and processing of vegetable oils generate solid and liquid residues, such as cakes, brans, deodorizer distillates, and glycerol. These by-products can be used as a source of nutrients for lipase production that can be applied to modify oils and fats. The development of biocatalytic routes is an important tool for maximizing the use of raw materials and minimizing waste generation, in the context of a circular economy. The use of such materials with low added value for enzymes, biodiesel, and biolubricants production through green technologies, and the possibility of integrating processes in a biorefinery concept are discussed. A discussion about the emerging processes in a comparative perspective with the traditional oleochemical industry is also presented.