MUMBAI, India, July 7 -- Intellectual Property India has published a patent application (202521086202 A) filed by Pandit Deendayal Energy University on September 11, 2025, for Methyl Ester Productions From High Ffa Feedstock Using A Novel Microchannel Reactor.
Inventors include Mr. Nirav Prajapati; Prof. Surendra Singh Kachhwaha; and Dr. Pravin Kodgire.
The application for the patent was published on July 03, 2026, under issue no. 27/2026.
Abstract: The present invention describes a PETG microchannel reactor-based system for biodiesel production from high free fatty acid (FFA) feedstocks, specifically acid oils. The system utilizes a continuous-flow microchannel design coupled with microwave-assisted intensification to enhance mass transfer and reaction kinetics. The microreactor, fabricated using cost-effective and chemically resistant PETG sheets, offers significant advantages over conventional reactor systems due to its high surface area-to-volume ratio, reduced diffusion limitations, and compatibility with corrosive acid catalysts. The process enables efficient conversion of high-FFA oils through microwave assisted intensified esterification and transesterification reactions, overcoming limitations associated with conventional base-catalyzed methods, such as saponification and poor phase separation. The invention demonstrates a highly energy- efficient, time-saving, and environmentally friendly approach suitable for industrial and pilot-scale applications. With optimized process parameters, the system achieves maximum FFA conversion of 93% and biodiesel yields exceeding 96.7%, aligning with ASTM and EN standards ( 96.5% purity). Compared to existing microreactor studies, which largely focus on low-FFA feedstocks and base catalysis, this invention addresses a critical gap by enabling the effective use of industrial by-products like acid oils. The use of PETG material also offers transparency for flow visualization, ease of fabrication, and cost-efficiency, making this system a practical and scalable solution for sustainable biodiesel production. Figure -1
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