Alcoholates by BASF – high quality catalysts for Biodiesel

Over the last few years, biodiesel has become a real alternative to conventional fuels. For good reasons: it is environmentally friendly and can be sourced from renewable materials. The utilisation of biodiesel reduces the use of fossil fuels. Today's biodiesel satisfies engine manufacturers' call for high-quality, powerful and economic fuel.

Dirk Wendel, Betriebsleiter Gutsbetrieb Rehhütte, auf dem Weg zur Feldbestellung mit einer Sämaschine. Der BASF Gutsbetrieb wird als realer landwirtschaftlicher Betrieb bewirtschaftet. Die dabei gewonnenen Erfahrungen und Erkenntnisse fließen unmittelbar in die Entwicklung innovativer Pflanzenschutzmittel.

Sodium and potassium methylate for the production of biodiesel

Biodiesel is made from vegetable oils and animal fats. Catalysts are used to help turn these oils into biodiesel in chemical processes. BASF's high-quality sodium and potassium methylate are ideal for this job.

Sodium methylate is an efficient and reliable catalyst that provides a sustainable solution for the production and use of biodiesel, meeting the requirements of engine manufacturers for high-quality fuels and lower emissions. Sodium methylate supports higher yields and low preparation cost for biodiesel.

The use of sodium methylate is more common, whereas potassium methylate is used for the biodiesel production from special oils and fats. Both are produced at BASF's Ludwigshafen Verbund site. Sodium methylate is also produced in Guaratinguetá, Brazil.

BASF is a global supplyer for biodiesel producers.

Customized products and technical know-how

Customers using BASF alcoholates can be sure of high-quality products, reliable service and logistics. A combination of global and local know-how ensures that our customers receive competent advice on site.

Your advantages at a glance

Customized products which are ready for use
High activity
High yield, low processing costs
Water-free
Easy to handle

The transesterification process – this is how it works!

Both vegetable and animal oils can be used to manufacture biodiesel. While most of the fuels manufactured in Europe are based on rape seed oil, manufacturers in the US and Asia tend to use soy or palm oil. A chemical reaction known as transesterification, involving methanol and using catalysts, is needed to convert these oils into fuel.

Transesterification: From vegetable oil to diesel fuel

Oils and fat molecules are always structured in the same way and comprise triglycerides, a compound of glycerol and three fatty acid molecules. During transesterification, the triglycerides are converted into biodiesel. The by-product, glycerol, is used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries.