Biocides Used as Additives to Biodiesels and Their Risks to the Environment and Public Health: A Review

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Microbiology
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Biodiesel use reduces emissions of pollutants like particulate matter and sulfur dioxide.
• Biodiesel is vulnerable to microbial contamination and biodeterioration, posing challenges for its widespread adoption.
• Effective and low-toxicity biocides are crucial for maintaining biodiesel quality and preventing degradation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review scientific literature (2008-2018) on biocide use in biodiesel.
• To assess the environmental and public health toxicity of biocides used in biodiesel.
• To identify current research gaps and future needs in biocide development for biodiesel.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of scientific databases.
• Analysis of publications concerning microbial contamination control in biodiesel.
• Evaluation of biocide types and their associated toxicity data.

Main Results:

• Limited research exists on microbial control in biodiesel, with only seven publications identified.
• Commonly studied biocides include isothiazolinones, oxazolidines, thiocyanates, morpholines, oxaborinanes, thiocarbamates, and phenolic antioxidants.
• No studies directly involving human experimentation were found, indicating a significant research gap.

Conclusions:

• Current biocide options for biodiesel are limited, necessitating further research and development.
• There is a critical need for broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents (bactericidal and fungicidal) for biodiesel.
• Comprehensive toxicological assessments are required to ensure environmental safety and public health protection.