Research Paper: Biscoff, R. K., & Enweremadu, C. C. (2023). Cashew nutshell liquid: A potential inedible source of biodiesel for heavy duty vehicles in sub-Saharan Africa. Energy Sources, Part A: Recovery, Utilization, and Environmental Effects, 45(1), 905-923.

 

WHAT THIS PAPER IS ABOUT

  •  To limit global temperature increase to below 2°C, efficient bioenergy use is crucial.
  • Developed countries have adopted biofuels successfully, but sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) lags behind.
  • SSA heavily relies on petroleum-based transportation, leading to significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
  • Bioenergy, particularly from cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL), can help reduce GHG emissions in the region.
  • Cashew nuts with shells are cultivated in SSA, generating significant amounts of CNSL agro-industrial waste.
  • The paper explores the potential of CNSL as a biodiesel feedstock for diesel engines.
  • It discusses extraction procedures, viscosity reduction methods, and fuel characteristics of different CNSL blends with additives.
  • Utilizing CNSL biodiesel can reduce SSA’s dependence on petroleum diesel and help lower GHG emissions.

 

 

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