Harnessing local biodiversity for sustainable energy: A comparative study of Detarium microcarpum, Citrullus lanatus, and Sclerocarya birrea seeds oils for biodiesel production

This paper examines the viability of biodiesel as a sustainable alternative to diesel fuel, with a focus on the use of non-edible plant oils from Northern Nigeria. The study investigates the extraction and characterization of oils from Detarium microcarpum, Citrullus lanatus, and Sclerocarya birrea, assessing their physicochemical properties and suitability for biodiesel production. The research involved sourcing fruits locally, extracting oils using a Soxhlet extractor, and determining oil yield and key properties such as specific gravity, acid value, and cetane number. The biodiesel production process included pre-treatment and transesterification, with the final product undergoing characterization to meet ASTM-D standards. The study found significant variability in the physicochemical properties of the seeds and seed oils, which influences their potential applications. Citrullus lanatus and Sclerocarya birrea showed higher oil yields and favorable properties for biodiesel production, while Detarium microcarpum’s high-quality oil may be better suited for specialty markets. The findings highlight Northern Nigeria’s untapped potential for biodiesel production and the need for comprehensive studies on local feedstocks. The research emphasizes the importance of comparative analyses and detailed research on the availability, viability, and cost of different feedstocks specific to Northern Nigeria. Developing a biodiesel industry could contribute to economic growth, sustainability, and energy security in the region.