Aplicação de técnicas de avaliação do ciclo de vida na produção do biodiesel a partir de óleo de soja

Abstract

Due to the global energy crisis, particularly with respect to petroleum derivatives, great efforts have been devoted to the study and production of renewable fuels. As a result, biodiesel fuel has become an important alternative to the specific use of diesel fuel. The aim of this study is to apply Life Cycle Assessment techniques to biodiesel fuel production from soybean oil via methylic route considering environmental aspects during the process of transesterification. Techniques for embodied energy analysis and analysis of material intensity flow were used. Results show that the use of soybean oil and methanol during transesterification causes significant impacts on the process. The other aspects involved cause less harm to the environment than those previously listed. Sustainability of biodiesel production from soybean depends on the use of rational resources in the process of soybean production, transportation, and processing. It is important to plan the use of less materials, water, and fossil fuels. Future acceptance and viability of biodiesel fuel are connected to the integration of biofuel production with the diversified production of food, taking advantage of co-products, and increasing internal recycling of materials and energy in food production and processing systems as well as organic food production systems or the application of agroecological concepts.