Valorization of Byproducts Produced During Extraction and Purification of Biodiesel

Abstract

Biodiesel is a green fuel that is another promising source as a renewable energy source for economic development and environmental sustainability. It is produced by the conversion of oil by short-chain alcohol or by the intensification of untreated fats. Glycerol (GLY) is probably the most important product produced during the production of biodiesel. Several methods have been developed to convert GLY into value-added compounds like glycerol carbonate (GLC), epichlorohydrin, 1,3-propanediol, etc. GLC is one of the most important raw and renewable chemicals with low toxicity, non-flammability, and a good biodegradable solvent in the biodiesel industry. Its use is being investigated in various fields such as ingredients in paints, coatings, cosmetics, and as a green solution in the pharmaceutical, chemical, and food industries. The transformation of GLY to GLC has been broadly examined through the transesterification reaction in the presence of a catalyst such as homogenous, heterogeneous, and enzymes has recently gained importance. GLC production utilizing GLY with DMC via the transesterification route in the presence of heterogeneous catalyst has been demonstrated to be most promising path. The purpose of this chapter presents a successful transformation approach and evaluated chemo-and biocatalytic transesterification reaction of GLYs by various carbonates source and a detailed explanation of the impact of the catalyst and working conditions of GLC yield.