Tree-Borne Oilseed (TBOs): Competitive Source for Biodiesel in India

Abstract

Biodiesel is a domestic, renewable fuel for diesel engine comprising of mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from natural oils/vegetable oils/animal fats. Non-edible TBOs (tree-borne oilseed) crops are known to be potential producer of biodiesel and also multipurpose trees in agriculture system. India has a great potential for production of biodiesel from non-edible oil seeds. Among the consortia of species wild apricot (Prunus armeniaca), simrauba (Simarouba glauca) and mahua (Madhuca indica) are the most promising species. This review paper assesses and integrates the biological and chemical attributes of the plant and describes about the different treeborne oilseeds in India, extraction of oil from tree-borne oilseeds, properties, characteristics and composition. These species also provide for production of energy from seed oil on par with petro diesel. With the proper planning it can be commercially exploited and make rapidly growing country self-sufficient in energy. Moreover, other environmental, socio-economic benefit enhances land value and promotes to take it on commercial basis. For generation of model on TBOs integrated research by national institutions, industry and people is required.