Review on algae for biodiesel fuel production, its characteristics comparison with other and their impact on performance, combustion and emissions of diesel engine

Purpose This study aims to find a new alternate source for biodiesel conversion. The alternate source must be easily available, and it should give more oil yield than available edible, inedible sources. To meet the fuel demand in the transportation sector with edible oil-based biodiesel causes food versus fuel crisis. In addition to this, it increases NOx and CO2 in the environment. Design/methodology/approach The present paper reviews the comparison of algae oil yield, fatty acid composition and its biodiesel properties’ effect on diesel engine characteristics. Findings Algae were the only source to fulfil fuel demand because its oil and biodiesel yield is higher than other sources. Algae can grow by capturing carbon dioxide from the environment, and its fatty acid composition is more suitable to run diesel engines. Originality/value There is an improvement in engine performance–emission tradeoff with algal biodiesel.