Title : A strategic technological roadmap for the future of biodiesel: Catalytic innovation and process intensification.
Abstract:
The transition toward low-carbon energy systems has intensified global interest in advanced biofuels that can meet climate and sustainability goals. Biodiesel remains a key candidate; however, its large-scale competitiveness is limited by feedstock costs, catalytic inefficiencies, and process-integration challenges. This study presents a technological roadmap based on evidence from 468 scientific articles, 124 patent applications, 101 granted patents, and 88 industrial and academic stakeholders. Three major innovation frontiers were identified: (i) intensified catalytic systems—including metal oxides, nanostructured catalysts, and next-generation lipases—offering higher conversion efficiencies under mild conditions; (ii) process-intensification strategies such as microreactors, ultrasonic and microwave-assisted operations, and digitally controlled continuous systems; and (iii) diversified feedstocks aligned with circular-economy principles, including waste oils, animal fats, lignocellulosic residues, and microalgae. Short-term trends emphasize enzymatic catalysis, advanced pretreatment, and integrated waste valorization, while medium-term developments highlight heterogeneous catalysts, hybrid enzymatic–chemical systems, ionic liquids, and scaled microreactors. Long-term innovation is converging toward integrated biorefineries, CO?-valorization routes, and catalytic nanotechnologies, all of which are supported by digitalization and global regulatory frameworks. This roadmap enhances the understanding of biodiesel innovation dynamics and provides strategic guidance for industry, policymakers, and sustainable energy investments.
