The National Geographic News reported (and the sustainablog, then the Treehugger, then digg) that a Japanese team of scientists has discovered a cheaper alternative to the current catalyst (sodium or potasium hydroxide) used in the biodiesel production. The new and much less expensive catalyst is around 10 to 50 times cheaper, and it uses a common, inexpensive sugar to form a recyclable solid acid that does the job on the cheap.
Inexpensive Catalyst May Lower Costs In Biodiesel
2005/11/25 by Rolando Garza
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My associates and I have studied this new technology. And it would be a great boon to the biodiesel industry. This catalyst would lower costs, simplify the production process and more.
However, it remains to be seen whether this product makes it to market. It could be many months or perhaps years before we find the sugar / carbon catalyst at the local chemical supply store – unfortunately.
Cordially – Joe Greene
joegreene@terrasolbifuels.com