Alternative Locally Available Feedstock Sources for Biodiesel

The potential of biodiesel production from oil seeds in Ethiopia was assessed and the qualities were compared, among the oils from different plants, to identify the most suitable species for biodiesel production. Samples of oil seeds were collected from different locations in the country. Agro-ecologically suitable areas were delineated using ArcGIS software and the spatial analyst tool. The physicochemical properties of each were tested against ASTM and EN standards. Biodiesel from J.curcas seed conforms with all the standard specifications of ASTM D 6751. R. communis fails to meet both the standards in density, kinematic viscosity and flashpoint and that of EN standard due to its acid number. B. carinata meets both standards, except in acid number and kinematec viscosity exceeding the range set by EN 14214. E. guineensis fails to meet both the standards in density, kinematic viscosity and acid number. The combined results indicate the opportunity to prefer the most appropriate, economically viable and environmentally safe oil plant species for fuel production and most useful for biofuel developers, investors and small farmers.