An evaluation of utility of Jatropha curcas L. as a source of multiple energy carriers

Abstract

Jatropha curcas L. (JCL) is a popular energy crop in tropical countries. The crop has multiple uses including supply of energy. The major source of energy from JCL the seed oil, which can be used in the raw form or as biodiesel. Biodiesel is a first generation energy carrier. Other products obtained from JCL during its production and processing include wood, fruit shells, seed husks and press-cake. Not much attention has been paid to the energy value of these components. This paper reviews the energy norms of these components and their energy value. Technologies exist to convert these into liquid, gaseous and solid energy carriers. The technologies include anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, gasification, trans-esterification and combustion. Use of these technologies can optimize the utility of JCL as a source of multiple energy carriers. There is need for integration of the available and distributed data, knowledge and experiences on use of JCL as an energy source into an aggregated discourse. This paper attempts to review the available information on the use of JCL as a source of multiple energy carriers with the objective to provide a complete analysis of the potential energy value of JCL.

International Journal of Engineering, Science and Technology, Vol. 2, No. 7, 2010, pp. 115-122