UNILORIN don produces biodiesel using chicken eggshell catalyst

By Saka Laaro, Ilorin

A distinguished figure in Chemical Engineering at the University of Ilorin, Professor Elizabeth Odetoye, has successfully produced biodiesel by harnessing the potential of chicken eggshells as a heterogeneous catalyst.

Professor Odetoye’s innovative approach aligns with the University of Ilorin’s commitment to fostering indigenous technological advancements aimed at driving socio-economic growth in Nigeria.

Through meticulous experimentation in ‘trans-esterification,’ she has demonstrated the viability of eggshells as a cost-effective catalyst for biodiesel production.

During her recent delivery of the university’s 253rd Inaugural Lecture, Professor Odetoye highlighted the promising yield achieved through this method, affirming the eggshell’s potential as a valuable resource in the biodiesel manufacturing process.

Notably, she emphasised the significance of utilising eggshells to add value to poultry production while concurrently reducing waste in the poultry industry.

Professor Odetoye’s groundbreaking research not only showcases the innovative spirit of academia but also opens new avenues for sustainable fuel production, marking a significant stride towards a greener and more efficient energy future

The don pointed out that biodiesel had been considered one of the sustainable fuel alternatives, noting that the high production cost of biodiesel when juxtaposed with fossil fuel, remains one of the major drawbacks in biodiesel production.

Odetoye defined biofuel as fuel made from biomass, saying: “Biofuel is synonymous with biocrude, biodiesel, bio-oil, biogas, bioethanol, biosyngas and bioslurry fuels.”

The university lecturer added that Nigeria is endowed with abundant lignocellulose biomass residues waiting to be explored through more environmentally friendly ways