Towards Valorization of Baobab for the Production of Biofuels

Abstract

Baobab (Adansonia digitata) is a promising bio-resource distributed across Africa. A variety of biofuels such as biodiesel, bioethanol, bio-oil and biogas can be prepared from feedstock derived from baobab. In this vein, different parts of baobab plant, for instance oil, fruit shells, and seed cakes can be utilized for biofuel synthesis. In this study, novozyme-435 (CAL-B) was used as a biocatalyst for biodiesel production. Oil to biodiesel conversion of 91.8±2.6% was obtained within 6 h reaction time at 50 °C when the molar ratio of oil to methanol was maintained at 1: 3. Biocatalysts are non-toxic and biodegradable, therefore sustainable for the process. The results showed potential use of baobab oil as a feedstock for biodiesel production.