Bio-Diesel from Jatropha

Abstract

Jatropha is a bush that grows in regions around the equator. In equatorial regions where moisture is not a limiting factor, Jatropha can bloom and produce fruit throughout the year. It requires specialized nursery techniques to raise the saplings in the nursery. Jatropha starts yielding seeds from the end of first year and the economic yield stabilizes from the end of 3rd year onwards. The plantation cost per hectare inclusive of site preparation, plant, material, maintenance for one year, overheads etc. shall be in the tune of Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 35,000 per hectare. It has been estimated that one hectare of land can accommodate 2500 Jatropha plants. The yield per plant in one harvest is around 3.5 kg. and from one kg of seeds, a little over 300 ml. of bio-diesel can be procured.