JATROPHA-CURCAS L AS A SOURCE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF BIOFUEL IN NICARAGUA

The development of Jatropha curcas L. as a possible energy crop in Nic aragua is discussed. The energy situation in Nicaragua, the cultivatio n of Jatropha curcas, the description of the plant, the composition of the seeds, the specification of the oil and the expected yield of oil production is outlined. A technical process for the processing of the seeds and the production of the methyl esters from the seed oil is de scribed. Methyl and ethyl esters from the oil of the seeds were prepar ed and the fuel properties of both eater fuels were determined accordi ng to existing standards for biodiesel. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Sc ience Ltd.