Assessing the Viability of Biodiesel as a Sustainable Alternative to Fossil
Fuels: A Comprehensive Review of Production, Properties, and
Applications
Submitted by:
CA Gamolo
Kyle Cedric
Junriel Quirante
Kiane Valmorida
Fearl Grace Aldia
Joshua Anthony Montecillo
Jean Rose Rameri Balansag
Khatlene Juris Catayoc Andoy
Submitted to:
Engr. John Michael Y. Danting
Instructor
INTRODUCTION
This study focuses on biodiesel as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The
increasing demand for energy, coupled with concerns over energy security and climate
change, has led to a growing interest in renewable energy sources. Biodiesel is a
promising candidate for meeting this demand, as it is a renewable, clean-burning
alternative to fossil fuels that can be produced from a variety of feedstocks.
Despite its potential, the viability of biodiesel as a sustainable alternative to fossil
fuels depends on several factors, including its production methods, properties, and
applications. This study aims to explore the viability of biodiesel as a sustainable
alternative to fossil fuels by providing a comprehensive review of its production,
properties, and applications.
The study begins by providing an overview of the various feedstocks used for
biodiesel production, including their availability, costs, and sustainability. The chemical
processes involved in biodiesel production, including the transesterification process, are
also discussed in detail.
The study then examines the physical and chemical properties of biodiesel,
including its viscosity, cetane number, and oxidative stability, along with its
compatibility with diesel engines and emissions characteristics. The various applications
of biodiesel, including its use as a transportation fuel and heating oil, are also explored,
along with the environmental benefits of biodiesel and the challenges and opportunities
associated with its production and use.
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
The need for renewable energy sources has become increasingly urgent due to
concerns over energy security and climate change. Biodiesel is a promising alternative to
fossil fuels, as it is a renewable, clean-burning fuel that can be produced from various
sources. Despite its potential, the viability of biodiesel as a sustainable alternative to fossil
fuels depends on several factors, including its production methods, properties, and
applications.
The existing literature on biodiesel covers a wide range of topics, but there is a need
for a comprehensive review that examines the various aspects that affect its viability as a
sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. This study aims to provide such a review by
examining the production, properties, and applications of biodiesel.
The study aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the role of biodiesel in a
sustainable energy system. It seeks to provide insights into the potential of biodiesel as a
sustainable alternative to fossil fuels by highlighting the challenges and opportunities
associated with its production and use. By examining the various factors that affect its
viability, the study aims to contribute to the development of a sustainable energy system
that addresses the growing demand for energy while addressing the challenges of climate
change and energy security.
OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this study is focuses on providing a comprehensive review of
biodiesel as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, with the aim of evaluating its
potential as a viable energy source that can contribute to a sustainable energy system.
Specifically, the study aims to:

Evaluate the physical and chemical properties of biodiesel, including its viscosity,
cetane number, and oxidative stability, and compare them to those of conventional
diesel fuel.

Assess the compatibility of biodiesel with existing diesel engines and evaluate its
emissions characteristics.

Examine the environmental benefits of biodiesel, including its reduced greenhouse gas
emissions and reduced dependence on fossil fuels.

Identify the challenges and opportunities associated with the production and use of
biodiesel and provide recommendations for future research and development.

Review the various feedstocks used for biodiesel production, including their
availability, costs, and sustainability.

Examine the chemical processes involved in biodiesel production, including the
transesterification process, and assess their efficiency and scalability.