Biodiesel Production from Oil Seed Crops Fertilized with Municipal Residuals

NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Biodiesel, a diesel fuel made from oil seed crops offers an environmentally sound alternative to conventional diesel fuels reducing emissions and conserving carbon dioxide. Conventional diesel engines can use biodiesel with no change in engine performance . In addition, it can be produced domestically from oil seed crops, thereby reducing our dependency on foreign oil. Currently, use of biodiesel is limited because of cost considerations. Canola or rape is one of the best suited crops for biodiesel prodution due to its high seed oil content. Seed residues can also be used for animal feed. It requires high fertilizer inputs including N, S, B, P and K. Biosolids are produced by all municipalities. By utilizing these materials to grow oil seed crops for biodiesel, production costs for making this diesel alternative may be sufficiently reduced to make it economically feasible for municipalities to use this type of fuel. This will provide an alternative beneficial use for municipal residuals that does not involve any potential for food chain transfer of organics or metals. It will also reduce dependence on foreign oil and emissions associated with conventional diesel fuel. It should provide increased profits for farmers and can help to integrate the rural and urban sector.