A comprehensive review of the evolution of biodiesel production technologies

Biodiesel, compatible with compression ignition engines, is a promising alternative to fossil fuels due to its renewable and environmentally friendly nature. However, the high cost of biodiesel production stems from inefficiencies in industrial processes. This review summarizes the recent developments in advanced biodiesel synthesis techniques, evaluating various catalysts, including homogeneous, heterogeneous, biocatalysts, nanocatalysts, and ionic liquids, alongside factors such as feedstock generations, lipid content, and operating conditions affecting biodiesel yield. Third-generation feedstocks, particularly algae, demonstrate superior energy and oil content and eco-friendly characteristics. Among the techniques, supercritical transesterification shows significant potential for enhanced production. Methanol-based transesterification remains the most cost-effective and efficient method for commercial biodiesel synthesis. The study also analyzes various uncertainty methods and emphasizes the importance of continued innovation, including genetic engineering, to advance biodiesel production and foster its adoption as a sustainable energy source for a cleaner future.