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Preliminary techno-economic analysis of biodiesel production over solid-biochar
Jae-Cheol Lee1, Boreum Lee1, Yong Sik Ok2
1School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, 50 UNIST-gil, Eonyang-eup, Ulju-gun, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea.
Bioresource Technology
|March 18, 2020
Summary
This study indicates biochar-based biodiesel production is economically viable. Key cost factors include methanol and waste cooking oil (WCO), with a feasible break-even price competitive with commercial diesel.
Area of Science:
- Biomass energy conversion
- Sustainable fuel production
Background:
- Waste cooking oil (WCO) presents a sustainable feedstock for biodiesel.
- Biochar production can be integrated with biodiesel synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the economic feasibility of biochar-based biodiesel production.
- To identify critical cost factors and profitability metrics.
Main Methods:
- Techno-economic analysis of a 30,000 ton y-1 biodiesel facility.
- Itemized cost estimation for biochar and biodiesel production.
- Sensitivity and payback period analysis.
Main Results:
- Methanol and WCO costs significantly impact biodiesel production cost.
- The break-even price is competitive with commercial diesel prices.
- A discounted payback period of approximately 2 years was observed.
Conclusions:
- Biochar-based biodiesel production demonstrates economic potential.
- Incentives like tax exemptions and subsidies can enhance WCO-based energy production viability.
