Degumming Process Design for Biodiesel Plants

Phosphorus is a contaminant in biodiesel. Phosphorus originates from phospholipids in biodiesel feedstock. Phospholipids removal is required in biodiesel production. Degumming is the most commonly used method for phospholipids removal. Different degumming processes, such as acid hydrolysis, enzymatic degumming, membrane, ultrafiltration, and supercritical CO₂ processing, etc., can be selected for different feedstocks. Continuous ultrasonic degumming improves mass transfer and thus higher efficiency. In-situ FT-IR analysis of phospholipids content provides a method for monitoring the phospholipids during degumming. Adsorbent could be used as a post-treatment method for quality assurance. Case study for scaling up the degumming process of soybean oil will be presented.