Biofuel production from Pachira aquatic Aubl and Magonia pubescens A St-Hil: Physical-chemical properties of neat vegetable oils, methyl-esters and bio-oils (hydrocarbons)

Abstract Two perennial tree species Pachira aquatica Aubl (PA) and Magonia pubescens A St-Hil (MP), both being endemic to Brazil, were studied as potential sources for biofuels production. The main benefits of those sources is the lack of competition with the food market and the preservation of native vegetation. The chemical composition and the physical-chemical properties of the oils extracted from both species were evaluated. Furthermore, their oils were processed to produce biofuels using two approaches: obtaining mixtures of methyl fatty acid esters (biodiesel) and mixtures of hydrocarbons (bio-oil). The physical-chemical properties of the biodiesels obtained from PA and MP are compatible with diesel engines. The bio-oils obtained from both sources, despite not being completely deoxygenated, displayed physical-chemical properties acceptable for diesel engines fuel. The possibility of obtaining two kinds of fuels with suitable properties is a good sign for the exploration of those trees.