Sustainable Approach to Biodiesel Production Using Hydrodynamic Cavitation Route

AbstractComplete reliance on fossil fuels has to lead to skyrocketing prices with detrimental environmental conditions. This drove the search for an alternative source of energy with low emissions and higher energy. In this regard, biodiesel has gained importance over the last few years as a clean, sustainable, and renewable energy resource. However, for producing biodiesel commercially it is important to recognize technologies that are sustainable, energetically feasible, and technologically viable. In this context, Hydrodynamic cavitation provides ample scope for the synthesis of biodiesel in the simplest, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly with high yield. In, the present work, a detailed analysis of intensified biodiesel production using HC is explained. The present chapter begins with a discussion on the acquisition of feedstock and the role feedstock played in the characterization of biodiesel. Furthermore, it also highlights the reaction mechanism for transesterification reaction employed chiefly for the production of biodiesel. The chapter further delves into biodiesel production using different reactors and their technological advancements. The chapter then proceeds to discuss the state of art HC technology and its use in biodiesel production. The chapter ends with the recent trends and future perspectives of biodiesel production concluding biodiesel prepared by this technology is scalable, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly.KeywordsHydrodynamic cavitationSustainabilityBiodieselRenewable energyTransesterification